Media centre

Wednesday 6 Nov 2019

Improvement work starts at Huddersfield station next week

Region & Route:

Eastern

Network Rail, TransPennine Express and Northern are working together to extend the platforms at seven stations on the Penistone line, with work starting at Huddersfield station on Wednesday, 20 November.

Platform two will be extended by five metres, and once completed it will provide a better experience for passengers, allowing new, longer trains with more seats to call there. A compound will be installed near Huddersfield station on Monday, 11 November to allow this work to take place.

The majority of this work will take place without disrupting services, but a key part of it will be completed between Wednesday, 25 December and Friday, 27 December. Network Rail carries out lots of engineering work during this time  to minimise disruption to passengers as fewer people travel. Passengers are encouraged to check on National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator before travelling.

Network Rail is working closely with TransPennine Express and Northern to minimise any disruption for passengers and residents who live near the railway.

Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail in the North and East said: “Extending platform two at Huddersfield means that longer trains can serve passengers on the Penistone Line, meaning more seats and a more comfortable journey.

"The improvement at Huddersfield is one of many on this line and while there may be some short term changes at these stations while the work takes place, the benefits that will come from longer trains will be worth it.”

Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Experience Director for TransPennine Express, said: “We’re pleased to see that the work to extend platform two at Huddersfield is about to begin, as it will allow longer trains to run from the platform, leading to better connectivity for those who use the station.

“While there may be some minor disruption, the long term benefits from Network Rail’s work for customers using Huddersfield station will benefit everyone who uses the Penistone Line.”

Anna Weeks, Regional Director at Northern, said: “The work being carried out by Network Rail will allow us to run better, longer trains for our customers – giving them an improved journey experience.

“We are working with Network Rail to keep disruption to a minimum and I’d like to also give my thanks to our customers for their understanding while the work takes place.”

ENDS