Latest phase completes on major railway upgrade works

The Transpennine Route Upgrade has completed its latest stage of work at Morley.

For nine days engineers on the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) programme have worked to bring passengers closer to a fully accessible station.

From 17 June to 25 June, engineers completed significant improvements at Morley Station which included construction of new platforms, the initiation of old platform demolition, a full signalling recontrol to Network Rail’s York Rail Operating Centre and installation of a new footbridge.

Despite soaring temperatures, these upgrades were finished on time, with the railway re-opened earlier this morning – 26 June.

Sarah Thompson, sponsor for Transpennine Route Upgrade, said: “We understand there is no right time to complete work that impacts rail travel, so really appreciate the patience and support of passengers while it has taken place.

“Despite the very warm weather, our engineers have made great progress and we’re really excited to officially open the station later this year.”

While the railway was closed, work also took place in Batley where a new 40-metre long footbridge, which will replace Lady Anne level crossing, was opened to the public.

The footbridge will improve safety as it stops the need for anybody to have direct contact with the railway.

Tony Baxter, regional director for the East at Northern, said: “We’re really grateful for the patience of all of our customers over the past nine days whilst work has been taking place to rebuild Morley station.

“We know this work has been disruptive, but we’re happy to be able to welcome our customers back on board our trains.

“Though it’s been a case of some ‘short term pain for long term gain’, when the new station opens fully later this year, the improved accessibility it will deliver will be absolutely transformational for our customers and the wider community.”

The extended platforms at Morley Railway Station will allow longer trains with more seats to stop at the station, while the new lifts and footbridge will provide increased accessibility for everybody.

Chris Nutton, major projects director for TransPennine Express, added: “It’s fantastic to see the significant upgrade work at Morley station completed, which will provide long-term benefits for customers, at Morley and right across the region as part of the TRU programme.

“I would like to thank customers for their co-operation whilst the important construction work took place.”

Once it is finished, The Transpennine Route Upgrade will improve rail across the north of England by delivering a fully electrified railway between Manchester and York, enhancing stations along the route and upgrading bridges and level crossings.