New year, new track for multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade

Work is due to start at Mirfield station as part of the major, multi-billion-pound programme of railway improvements between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York.

The upgrades include 663 metres of new track being installed, signal testing and work to the station platforms and Station Road footbridge.

The work at Mirfield station includes longer platforms that will enable longer trains with more seats to call at the station, additional waiting shelters and step-free access via lifts and a new footbridge.

Gareth Hope, sponsor for the Transpennine Route Upgrade, said: “These upgrades are a vital part of our wider programme of work, and I’d like to thank passengers and local residents for their patience and understanding while they take place.

“We understand how important the festive period is for people seeing family and friends, so we have worked closely with our train operating colleagues to keep people on the move.”

Chris Nutton, major projects director at TransPennine Express, said: “The engineering works at Mirfield station during the new year period are vital to delivering a railway fit for the 21st century across the north of England. 

“These upgrades will lead to real benefits for our customers who travel between some of the biggest cities in the north.”

Passengers travelling between Huddersfield and Leeds are being asked to check before they travel via National Rail Enquiries as some trains will be diverted and others will be replaced by buses.

While the upgrades take place, Station Road will be closed from Lowlands Road to Back Station Road. Diversions and signage will be in place.

The work is part of a wider programme spanning from Manchester to York to bring faster, greener and more reliable trains for passengers along the Transpennine route.