The results of major investment at Leeds station were celebrated on Wednesday 9th October by Network Rail, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leeds City Council.
A new transparent roof has been installed over the concourse during the last 12 months, which replaces the old dark structure. The new transparent roof, which uses the same design as the southern entrance, lets natural light into the area and makes the station feel more open
Other improvements have been made at the station, the toilets have been revamped and a new simpler alignment of ticket barriers have been installed. The station remained open during the work and there were no changes to train services.
West Yorkshire Combined Authority's £2.1 million West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund scheme has seen new bus shelters and yournextbus real-time displays installed, a new pedestrian crossing and the resurfacing of New Station Street.
Network Rail has announced additional work at the station, including improving the flooring in the main concourse, improvements to canopies on New Station Street and refurbishing the platform toilets.
What Did the Officials Say?
Rob McIntosh, Managing Director, Eastern, for Network Rail, said:
“In the last year, we have seen the main concourse at Leeds station transformed. The open and inviting area is almost unrecognisable from the previous dingy and dark atmosphere and we are delighted that that station users are benefitting from this and we would like to thank them for their patience whilst this took place.
“We are committed to creating a station which Leeds can be proud of. We will now move onto phase two of the project which will see further upgrades, including to the flooring and toilets and we continue to work with both West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leeds City Council on this.”
Cllr Judith Blake CBE, Leader of Leeds City Council, said:
“These improvements are real steps forward to creating a world class city centre gateway for residents, visitors and commuters.
“Leeds City Station plays a vital role in linking to the local transport network and is also key to connectivity in the North of England, with more than 34 million passengers passing through each year. These improvements will provide a much better experience for all who use the station as we continue its development to meet the ever-growing demand for rail travel now and in the future.”
Leeds City Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee member Cllr Peter Carlill said:
“The work on New Station Street has transformed the environment outside the main entrance, making it more spacious, more inviting and easier to use for rail users and bus passengers.
“As well as creating a more fitting gateway for people arriving in the city, the improvements will mean quicker and easier travel and interchange between train and us for pedestrians, particularly during peak times.”
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