‘Significant’ disruption for West Yorkshire rail passengers over next two months
Rail passengers in West Yorkshire are being warned to expect “significant” disruption as work continues on the multi-billion pound Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU).
TRU is a long-term project aimed at transforming the railway between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. It promises to electrify the route and add extra track, delivering greener, faster, more frequent services.
Between May 2 and May 25, major work will take place on the line between Huddersfield and Leeds. Workers will renew 6.2km of track and lay more than 21,000 tonnes of ballast.
Around 50 foundation bases will also be installed to support overhead line equipment in the future, helping to pave the way for electrified services. As a result of the work, rail passengers can expect disruption between Huddersfield and Leeds.
During weekdays, customers travelling between Huddersfield and Leeds will be diverted via Wakefield. At weekends, trains will run as close as possible to the stations, with replacement buses in operation between Huddersfield and Leeds.
Network Rail said Brighouse station will act as a key rail and bus interchange during the work.
Customers are advised to check before they travel at nationalrail.co.uk or with their train operator, as journey times will change and replacement buses may be required for part or all of their journey.
After this work is finished, a second phase will take place between Batley and Dewsbury from May 30 until June 27.
This will allow Batley station to reopen with step-free access and improved facilities, and Dewsbury station to have its platforms extended.
Meanwhile, work to improve Deighton station in Huddersfield is progressing as part of TRU.
This includes the construction of a new footbridge with lifts, as well as extended platforms to accommodate longer trains.
Andrew Allwright, TRU programme delivery lead for Northern, said: “TRU continues to make lots of progress between Huddersfield and Leeds, delivering a once in a generation upgrade for our customers.
“We’ve already seen key milestones delivered such as a brand-new station at Morley and a remodelled, fully accessible, station at Mirfield.
“Throughout May and June, more work will take place between Huddersfield, Dewsbury and Leeds, which will mean changes to services.
“We’ve worked collaboratively with colleagues at TransPennine Express to plan for these works and limit disruption for customers.
“We advise everyone planning to travel in May and June to check beforehand at nationalrail.co.uk, as amended timetables will be in operation, including rail replacement buses for some routes.”