Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) engineers have completed a series of work across 5 weekends between Leeds and York.

Overhead line equipment mast installation took place earlier this year; now, following the work, 7.5 km of wiring has been completed between Church Fenton and Micklefield.

This work will allow for electric trains to use this section of the line, which is set to launch just east of this location in the next few months.

During the work, Station Road Bridge, in Cross Gates, was demolished and replaced to allow for the overhead line equipment to be installed.

They also renewed around 750 metres of track between Killingbeck and Cross Gate, as well as installing a new track crossover, allowing for smoother journeys for passengers.

These upgrades did cause a closure of the line while they were carried out, with diversions and replacement buses in place across the weekends to keep passengers moving.

“This latest series of upgrades has taken us a step closer to the electrification of the route between York and Manchester. Wiring is now in place in the Barkston Ash area, whilst Cross Gates station can now facilitate the installation of OLE masts.

“Work to deliver cleaner, greener services throughout this area will continue throughout the year, whilst attention also turns to the introduction of electric passenger services nearby, which is another huge milestone for the programme.”

Adam Sellers, senior sponsor for TRU