HS2

New images of planned £500m Leeds station development revealed

Images revealing how the remodelled Leeds station could look have been revealed today.

The images, which have been released as part of the new report, ‘the Leeds integrated station masterplan,’ are based on the set of principles for the masterplan approved by Leeds City Council last month.

The proposals outlined in the report have been costed at over £500m.

They include new entrances, a new central common concourse, new platforms, new public spaces, a new roof, new footbridge, external landscaping and the creation of a surrounding station campus for commercial, residential and leisure developments.

The main new internal feature of the remodelled station is a central common concourse connecting HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail and existing rail services, with an over bridge providing access to all other platforms.

As well as improved journey times, rail capacity and connectivity, the Leeds City Region says that it is committed to using high speed rail connectivity as a catalyst for job creation, education and helping to tackle poverty in areas of deprivation.

Sir David Higgins, HS2 Ltd chairman, said: “It’s fantastic to see how much progress has been made since we first announced our plans to bring HS2 to Leeds.

“Working together with HS2 Ltd, the Leeds City Region, Network Rail and Transport for the North, Leeds has clearly seized the opportunity that high-speed rail represents both locally and regionally.

“HS2 presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity both to revitalise Leeds and, in the process, rebalance Britain. 

“Leeds’ plans live up to that level of ambition and will leave a legacy that the city and the region can be proud of for decades to come.”

Network Rail’s route managing director, Rob McIntosh, added: “We know that a world-class station has the potential to drive the transformation of the surrounding area, driving further investment and improving social opportunities for the community the station serves.

“That is why we are delighted to be partners in this exciting vision which will transform the city station to create a world-class gateway.

“The masterplan has a clear focus on the future and the arrival of HS2 but can be implemented in phases, bringing benefits to passengers and the city at each stage.

“We will be working closely with our partners, funders and stakeholders to secure the funding which will make this vision a reality.”

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, added that high speed rail was essential for Leeds and the wider region to fully meet its potential.

And chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, explained the importance of the project: “These new images show what this northern gateway hub could look like and embody the City Region’s aspirations, that high-speed rail will transform our productivity and connectivity.

“Through this hub and the investment into improved transport links between our towns and cities and other parts of the UK; such as Northern Powerhouse Rail connecting Manchester, Bradford, Leeds and York.

“We will ensure that our talent can access the careers and opportunities of tomorrow, producing a tangible economic benefit which can lead to inclusive growth for all the people who live and work here.”

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