On Friday, Network Rail unveiled a newly resurfaced canal towpath and upgraded footpath around the memorial garden in Mirfield, West Yorkshire.

Network Rail says that the new paths offer the local community ‘a greener, easier, safer, and more accessible route to the station’.

This is the fourth ‘First and Last Mile’ project to be completed and delivered by the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), Kirklees Council and the Canal & River Trust.

The partnership agreed to fund the work in Mirfield last year.

The ‘First and Last Mile’ project forms part of a wider initiative to improve active travel connections to and from railway stations along the Transpennine Route.

The work in Mirfield has delivered several enhancements for the local community and canal users.

1.2 kilometres of towpath between Station Road, Mirfield and Shepley Marina have been upgraded, and now provide a robust, all-weather surface which is suitable for both walkers and wheelers (cyclists and wheelchair users).

The work also involved restoring historic features of the canal, such as cobbled areas and canal banks.

A new bench has been installed. Trust volunteers have enhanced the flower garden.

A new route has been created from Mirfield station through the park, which includes new steps to replace a previously muddy slope, extra paths within the park and an exit onto Parkfield Crescent with handrails.

The Council has further improved the park by upgrading the play area and extending the pétanque courts.

The organisations involved believe that the improvements create a safer, more enjoyable walking route for passengers travelling to and from Mirfield station.

The station itself is currently being upgraded, with the addition of a fully accessible footbridge with lifts, longer platforms to accommodate longer trains, and better facilities for passengers.

The improvements were unveiled at an event which began at Mirfield station and continued with a short walk along the upgraded towpath to the memorial garden. At the garden, local community group and residents enjoyed refreshments and heard from speakers from organisations involved in delivering the project.

Kim Leadbeater MP officially opened the new route at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

”It’s fantastic to see this investment making a real difference to the local community that live in Mirfield. These improvements not only help people make greener travel choices but also enhance the local space and make the area more accessible for everyone.”

Kim Leadbeater MP