Mirfield towpath to be upgraded courtesy of Network Rail fund. It creates better connections in Spring upon completion.
The towpath is often muddy and difficult now. The upgrade will create an all-weather surface. This will improve connections in the area. The TRU scheme aims to improve station access. The first projects should finish by Spring.
The canal charity is happy about the funding. They will improve the towpath along the Calder & Hebble. This makes walking between places much easier. They want to preserve historic canals. The towpath may close when they lay tarmac.
Mirfield’s wider TRU plans include upgrading the station. Platforms 1 and 2 will be rebuilt. They will be safer and more modern. Longer platforms will handle longer trains.
Platform 3 will be removed in 2027. This allows faster lines to be built. Work began already on a new station entrance. A new footbridge with lifts will be built, too. It will connect the new platforms. The station will thus be accessible from both sides.
The TRU scheme means more trains overall for passengers. Between Leeds and Manchester, there will be more trains. They plan up to six fast trains every hour. Also, there will be up to two slower “stopping services”. Travel between cities will happen faster by train. Manchester to York may take 63 minutes. Leeds to Manchester could take about 41 minutes.
