04.05.20
Planned rail works over Early May Bank Holiday in Yorkshire
People who may need to use train services over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend are being encouraged by Network Rail to check before travelling as track improvement work takes place in West Yorkshire, meaning there are further changes to services.
On Sunday (May 10) Network Rail engineers will carry out work to replace the track between Wakefield Westgate and Leeds. This will create a more reliable and efficient railway, which is essential so services can continue moving passengers who must travel.
It also means that vital food and medical supplies can be transported to supermarkets and hospitals via freight services.
In line with current Government advice, Network Rail are continuing to proceed with engineering work that is required to maintain a safe and operational railway. This work will also upgrade the railway and improve journeys for passengers in future.
In order for the track work to be carried out safely, the line will be closed between Wakefield Westgate and Leeds, via Outwood on Sunday (May 10). There will be the following changes to services:
- No trains will be calling via Wakefield Westgate station.
- To keep those who cannot work from home moving, diversionary routes and bus replacement services will be in place between Doncaster, Knottingley, Moorthorpe and Leeds and between Wakefield Westgate and Sheffield/Leeds/Doncaster.
- Passengers are urged by Network Rail to continue following social distancing guidelines on these services and stay at least two metres apart.
Route Director for North and East for Network Rail, Matt Rice, said: “Passengers should only travel over the Bank Holiday weekend if they have to, and we advise them to check their individual journey via National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator.
“This work to improve the track between Wakefield Westgate and Leeds is vital to allow a safe and reliable railway to operate, so that people who must travel by rail are able to do so, and so vital supplies can continue to be transported across the country.
“We will continue to follow social distancing guidelines from Public Health England whilst this work is carried out and would like to thank people for following the Government’s advice.”
Image: Network Rail