Residents, businesses and rail users are being invited to have their say on plans for the proposed Thorpe Park Rail Station, a major transport investment set to strengthen links between east Leeds and the city centre.
The new station is planned for land adjacent to Thorpe Park Business Park, located between Cross Gates and Garforth on the Leeds to York section of the TransPennine route. Designed as a fully accessible facility, the station aims to provide quicker journeys into Leeds, better access to employment and leisure destinations at Thorpe Park and The Springs, and enhanced park and ride opportunities for commuters.
Journey times to Leeds Station are expected to be between 10 and 12 minutes, creating a faster and more convenient rail option for passengers travelling from east Leeds.
The project is being developed by Network Rail in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, with Leeds City Council playing a key role in the consultation process.
Under the current proposals, Thorpe Park Rail Station will feature two platforms, allowing at least two services per hour in each direction, including routes between Leeds and York and Leeds and Hull. The station would also include step-free access via lifts and a footbridge, ticket machines, cycle storage facilities and a 300-space car park complete with electric vehicle charging points, disabled parking bays and dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas.
The scheme forms part of the West Yorkshire Mayor’s ambition to deliver the Weaver Network, an integrated transport system designed to seamlessly connect rail, bus, future mass transit services, walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure across the region.
Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire Mayor, said:
“Quick and reliable transport is essential for helping people, communities and businesses to thrive.
“Our brand-new station will deliver faster commutes, boost our economy and reduce congestion on our roads.”
“Our Weaver Network will help us build a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”
The Combined Authority has already delivered new stations at Low Moor, Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge. In total, ten bus and rail stations have been built or upgraded through an investment programme worth £111 million, aimed at improving public transport across West Yorkshire.
Jason Hamilton, Route Director for Network Rail N&E, said:
"We're delighted to be partnering with WYCA to develop plans for the new Thorpe Park station. Connecting communities to opportunity through rail connectivity is central to growth in the North and we're proud to be able to play a part in delivering this for West Yorkshire."
Councillor Peter Carlill, Executive Member for Transport and Planning at Leeds City Council, said:
"Thorpe Park Rail Station will be a major boost for east Leeds, providing faster journeys and better connections for residents, workers and visitors alike.
"The new station will improve access to the employment, retail and leisure opportunities at Thorpe Park and The Springs, while helping more people travel into Leeds city centre and across the wider region by rail.
"As part of our wider plans for an integrated transport network, this investment will make public transport a more convenient choice and support the continued growth of east Leeds.
"I encourage everyone to take a look at the proposals and have their say through the consultation."
The full business case is expected to be submitted later this year and will be considered at a future Combined Authority meeting. Subject to approvals, construction is currently scheduled to begin in 2027.
Image credit: iStock
