As part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade, Hillhouse Sidings in Huddersfield has been converted into a light maintenance depot.

The 175-year-old sidings are now a state-of-the-art £46.5 million facility, officially now known as Hillhouse Light Maintenance Depot.

Northern staff can now maintain, clean and repair trains at the site overnight, helping to keep trains running across Yorkshire.

Northern opened the depot, which will be open 24 hours a day, at an event earlier this week.

The facility can accommodate 24 carriages, with more space expected to be introduced over the next few years to accommodate electric and bi-mode services.

“We’re delighted this depot is now open, following years of hard work and millions of pounds of investment.

“It will play a vital role in ensuring services are in an excellent condition and run smoothly for passengers along the upgraded Transpennine Route.”

Rob Warnes, Northern’s strategic development director