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Tuesday 22 Jan 2013

Station platform improvements works complete at Kirkgate

Region & Route:

Rail passengers at Wakefield Kirkgate have improved surroundings after Network Rail completed work to remove the redundant spine wall and renew the canopies on the station platforms.

Ambitious plans to transform the listed station building by Groundwork Wakefield continue to progress, with support from Network Rail, Northern Rail, Grand Central Rail, West Yorkshire PTE (Metro), Wakefield Council, ERDF and Railway Heritage Trust.

“Our project is in addition to the wider scheme to transform the station building led by Groundwork Wakefield” said Phil Verster, Route Managing Director for Network Rail. “Some years ago we recognised that Kirkgate was a station in need of attention. It is gratifying to see the work which the rail partners have delivered bringing real benefits to passengers’ experience as they travel to and from Wakefield.”

The Network Rail work on the station is worth approximately £1.5m and has been funded by the company with a contribution from the Railway Heritage Trust.

Metro Chairman Cllr James Lewis said: "Through partnership working between Metro, Network Rail, Wakefield Council, the train operators and Groundwork Wakefield, we are on the road to delivering a much needed step-change in facilities for passengers."

Richard Allan, Area Director for Northern Rail comments: "Wakefield Kirkgate station is set to be transformed over the next couple of years and we are thrilled to continue to be part of the overall project. The improvements that are being made are a great example of a successful partnership achieving real results for our customers."

Ken Taylor, executive director for Groundwork Wakefield, said: "Groundwork, along with partners, is committed to bringing the station back to its former glory and it will be a catalyst for the regeneration of the entire Kirkgate area.”

"Not only will the redevelopment provide a safe and welcoming gateway to the city, it will provide facilities for local communities, enterprises to grow in and foster a sense of community pride into the area."

In 2009 and 2010, Northern Rail, Network Rail and Metro secured improvements to the CCTV system and subway as well as improvements to signage, a new help point and refurbished entrance lobby. The car park was also resurfaced, allowing the free bus to call at the station. This was mainly funded through the National Stations Improvement Programme, a joint rail industry initiative funded primarily by the Department for Transport.