A huge Network Rail project to upgrade track at Leeds station is the largest of its kind in 20 years and is now complete!
The giant operation saw over 200 railway staff members carry out a successful remodel of the track layout between platforms 4 and 6. The dedicated workforce worked from Christmas day right through to Monday the 3rd of January to complete the mammoth task.
The new layout brings improvements on how trains move in and out of the station and will cut delays and bring a more reliable railway for passengers.
Further upgrade work was also carried out during the Christmas period which included the installation of more than 1,500m of new electric wires which power some trains, alongside renewing 200m of track which will bring improved reliability. Platform 7 has also been extended which will allow longer trains to use the platform.
Matt Rice, North and East Route Director for Network Rail, said: “These important improvements at Leeds make it easier for us to run more trains on time right across the North. We had to run some bus replacement services over the course of the festive period and Covid also affected some services, so thanks to all those passengers who chose to travel.
“The progress we've made means better journeys for everyone using the train in 2022 and beyond.”
Some follow up work will need to take place and will happen on Sunday the 30th of January 2022 and will see some changes for services both to and from Leeds station.
Due to the current lack of staff available, some services may see delays or cancellations and passengers are being advised to check ahead of travelling.
Rail Minister, Wendy Morton said: “Leeds station is a major hub right at the heart of the North, not only a gateway to one of the UK's most vibrant and lively cities but a vital transport link enabling people from all over the country to travel for work, pleasure and connect with friends and family.”
“These upgrades are a huge milestone making these journeys even easier, providing passengers with more seats, more services and more punctual journeys all while building upon our unprecedented Integrated Rail Plan – delivering a modern, fully connected transport hub fit for the future quicker than under previous plans.”
Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “This is an important milestone in our continued ambitions to modernise Leeds' rail connections to make them fit to support what is one of the fastest-growing economies with the busiest railway station in the north of the UK.
“These upgrades will improve the passenger experience and are a first step towards beginning to address our capacity issues at Leeds station. We will work with the government to secure a robust strategy for ongoing enhancements to improve connectivity for Leeds that will benefit Yorkshire, the North and the UK.”
Paul Tuohy, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Expanding and improving the rail network will be key to reducing carbon emissions and helping cities to thrive. The upgrades at Leeds station will enable more people to travel by rail and make journeys more reliable, an important step towards a greener transport future.”
