Passengers in Mirfield are set to benefit from a completely transformed railway station following the latest milestone in the £11 billion Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). The newly modernised station now offers step‑free access, extended platforms, and upgraded customer facilities—laying the foundation for faster, more reliable services across West Yorkshire and beyond.
The improvements enable longer trains with increased seating capacity to stop at the station, paving the way for enhanced connectivity between key northern cities such as Manchester, Leeds, and York.
The upgraded station was officially reopened today by Kim Leadbeater, MP for Spen Valley, who joined local leaders, rail partners, and accessibility advocates to celebrate the transformation. The enhancements include a brand‑new footbridge, lifts for full step‑free access for the first time, extended platforms, modern waiting shelters, improved lighting, and new information screens.
A redesigned platform layout will support TRU’s broader plan to introduce two new fast lines along this section of railway—allowing express services to overtake stopping trains, reducing journey times, increasing capacity, and strengthening long‑term regional connectivity.
A Milestone for the North
Kim Leadbeater, MP for Spen Valley, said:
“The reopening of Mirfield station is a huge step forward for rail travel in the Spen Valley area. Faster, more frequent services to and from Mirfield means there will be real benefits for the town, and the improved connectivity to places like Manchester, Leeds and York will help unlock the potential of Kirklees.
“I’m really glad I could be here today to see first-hand the progress being made on TRU, and look forward to seeing their upgrades coming to life elsewhere.”
Councillor Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council, added:
“The Transpennine Route Upgrade is a big part of the major investment being made across Kirklees at the moment.
“If we can keep delivering improvements like these along with the host of other projects that are underway, our economy and our infrastructure has a bright future.”
James Richardson, TRU Managing Director, said:
"The transformation of Mirfield station is another key step for the Transpennine Route Upgrade, it demonstrates the pace of the improvements and how major benefits are already being delivered for communities across the North.
“Better connectivity for all between our towns and cities is a real enabler for growth across the entire region, and across Team TRU we’re proud to once again showcase our capability, while being on time and on budget.”
Kerry Peters, Director of Stations for Northern, commented:
“It is fantastic to see the work that has been completed as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade for our customers at Mirfield, which will deliver long term benefits to all that use the station.
“This investment will really make a difference to the everyday journeys of those who use the station. With the installation of the new footbridge and lifts, not only do we see the benefits of step free access, but improved access from platforms to the car park, creating a more seamless journey for our customers.”
Ongoing Work Across the Route
While platform 3 remains operational during ongoing four‑tracking works, significant progress is also being made at nearby Batley and Dewsbury stations, both scheduled for completion later this year.
Beyond rail infrastructure, TRU is also delivering long‑lasting community benefits in the Spen Valley. The programme has delivered more than 460 hours of volunteering, engaged over 3,000 young people through education initiatives, and provided work experience and apprenticeships for local residents.
A further £3 million investment into the First and Last Mile programme is improving access to stations by enhancing walking and cycling routes, creating greener travel corridors, and delivering safer, more accessible public spaces. These improvements include:
- Better walking and cycling connectivity
- High‑quality public realm
- Full step‑free access
- Safer and more inclusive navigation
- A greener, more enjoyable journey experience
