Friday 14 Aug 2009
Improved access to Leeds station - plans unveiled
- Region & Route:
Media are welcome to attend any of the exhibition times but are requested to give notice if they require interviews so that arrangements can be made.
Thousands of rail passengers will have quicker and more convenient access to Leeds station under plans for a new southern entrance.
Metro and Network Rail are developing the scheme which will allow people to get in and out of Leeds station from both sides of the river Aire around Granary Wharf.
Public exhibitions are being held at the station - starting on Friday 14 August - to canvass the opinions of travellers and local residents and businesses.
Richard Lungmuss, route director for Network Rail, said: "More than 100,000 people come through Leeds station on a normal weekday and the number of passengers is steadily increasing. This new entrance will not only improve access for those coming into the station from the south but will also help us to manage future demand.
"This is the first stage in a range of exciting plans for the station which will continue to improve facilities and services for passengers."
The new entrance has been carefully designed using a curved design, minimising its size, while remaining modern, accessible and attractive.
"Leeds Station is at the heart of the city and the city region," said Metro Chairman Cllr Ryk Downes. "Our proposed new entrance will create a faster, step-free route to the vibrant areas to the south of the city centre such as Holbeck Urban Village, Bridgewater Place, the riverside and canal basin."
"Together with proposed new stations at Kirkstall Forge, Apperley Bridge and Low Moor, this is a significant investment in local rail travel and the local economy by Metro and Network Rail."
Feedback can be provided by visiting www.wymetro.com/leedssouthern, sending an email to leedssouthern@wypte.gov.uk or by filling in forms which will be available at the exhibition and from information points at the station.
Comments received will be used to further develop the scheme.
Notes to editors
A planning application is likely to be submitted in September 2009. The council will then conduct a further round of public consultation. Subject to planning approval and funding the new entrance will open in 2012. The cost of developing the scheme has been funded by Network Rail and Metro. If the bid is successful the DfT will fund up to 90% of the scheme, with the remainder funded locally.Contact information
Passengers / community members
Network Rail national helpline
03457 11 41 41
Latest travel advice
Please visit National Rail Enquiries
Journalists
Network Rail press office -London North Eastern & East Midlands route
01904 383180
mediarelations@networkrail.co.uk
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