The Transpennine Route Upgrade has reached another key milestone as engineers successfully completed five consecutive weekends of critical work between Leeds and York, paving the way for faster, greener rail journeys across the North.
Following earlier installation of overhead line equipment masts, engineers have now completed 7.5km of wiring between Micklefield and Church Fenton. This progress supports the upcoming launch of electric passenger services between York and Church Fenton, building on last year’s successful electrification between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge.
Key improvements delivered during the works include:
- Demolition and replacement of Station Road bridge in Cross Gates to allow for future OLE installation.
- 750 metres of renewed track between Killingbeck and Cross Gates, improving ride quality and reliability.
- Installation of a new track crossover, enabling trains to switch lines and maintain service continuity during future upgrade phases.
The upgrades were delivered during a full closure of the Leeds–York line, with close coordination between TransPennine Express, Northern, and other operators. Diversionary routes and rail replacement buses ensured passengers could continue their journeys with minimal disruption.
Senior Sponsor for TRU, Adam Sellers, said:
“This latest series of upgrades has taken us a step closer to the electrification of the route between York and Manchester. Wiring is now in place in the Barkston Ash area, whilst Cross Gates station can now facilitate the installation of OLE masts.
“Work to deliver cleaner, greener services throughout this area will continue throughout the year, whilst attention also turns to the introduction of electric passenger services nearby, which is another huge milestone for the programme.”
The TRU is a multi-billion-pound programme designed to modernise the key rail corridor between Manchester, Leeds, and York. By electrifying the route and upgrading infrastructure, the project will deliver faster journey times, increased reliability, and reduced carbon emissions.
More milestones are expected in the coming months as the TRU continues to transform rail travel across the North of England.
Image credit: iStock
