As part of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade, Network Rail will replace Fieldhouse Lane bridge in Huddersfield this August, seeing the newly reinforced Calder Valley line keep passengers moving this, Summer.
This upgrade project comes with the hopes to unlock space for more trains in the future, whilst allowing the line to be electrified, enabling cleaner, quieter electric trains to run. Plans for doubling of the rail tracks between Huddersfield and Westtown (Dewsbury) from two to four, will also be supported through the upgrade works.
The Calder Valley has seen major infrastructural resilience works over the last 2 years, enhancing its stability when faced with heavy downpours. The improvements will be highlighted this August when the route maximises its full capacity, affording the space for two additional trains along the line per hour. The culmination of these upgrade works will eventually see the Calder Valley route run an additional three trains per hour, encouraging passenger travel with more seating and availability for commuters.
Works will be conducted through the first two weekends in August, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th, Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th, in the hopes of causing as few delays to passenger travel as possible. The majority of trains through Huddersfield will continue to run via Brighouse and the Calder Valley route, however people are being advised to check before they travel via National Rail Enquiries or their train operator for the latest updates.
Hannah Lomas, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail said:
“It’s brilliant to see the years of improvement work on the Calder Valley line come into use, allowing us to complete this essential bridge upgrade in Huddersfield while also allowing passengers to continue travelling by train.
“The new and improved route will act as a vital diversion now and into the future as we deliver faster, cleaner, more frequent journeys for passengers travelling between York, Leeds, Huddersfield and Manchester.”
Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service & Operations Director for TransPennine Express, said:
“The work taking place this August is vital to the TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU) programme and will affect TransPennine Express services in and out of Huddersfield, leading to a number of service alterations. We will do all we can to keep customers on the move, and the plan is to divert our trains via the upgraded Calder Valley route, with a rail replacement bus service also operating, where required."
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