TRU Bridge Upgrades & Electrification: West Yorkshire Rail Innovations

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Introduction

Significant structural enhancements to bridges in West Yorkshire, including the A62 Leeds Road bridge in Deighton and the Station Road bridge in Mirfield, were completed as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). These projects, along with track renewals and electrification efforts, are aimed at improving railway infrastructure and services.

Bridge Reconstruction and Upgrades

The reconstruction of the A62 Leeds Road bridge in Deighton is part of the TRU plan to increase its height and width. This will facilitate railway upgrades, including the installation of overhead line equipment (OLE) to power electric trains and the doubling of tracks from two to four. The Station Road bridge in Mirfield saw the installation of a new bridge deck using a 450ft crane. This upgrade will also support the lengthening of the platform to accommodate longer trains.

Track Renewal and Electrification

Track renewal works were performed between Stalybridge, Huddersfield, and Dewsbury to improve journey reliability. Additionally, work on foundations for OLE masts was carried out across West Yorkshire. The introduction of electric passenger services between York and Church Fenton has resulted in 25 percent of the Transpennine route being electrified.

Project Leadership and Collaboration

Andrew Campbell, TRU sponsor, highlighted the successful and timely completion of the upgrades, which involved work over seven weekends. The TRU’s Enterprise model, in collaboration with Northern and TransPennine Express, facilitated customer mobility during the works. A £100m TRU investment supports diversionary routes, and rail replacement bus services were in operation for intermediate stations.

Upcoming Service Disruptions

Chris Nutton, Major Projects and TRU Director at TransPennine Express, acknowledged the improvements resulting from the completed works. He also announced the upcoming 30-day closure of Huddersfield station, affecting services between Manchester, Huddersfield, and Leeds from Saturday 30 August to Sunday 28 September. Deighton station will remain closed until 2027. Customers are advised to check nationalrail.co.uk for travel information.

Conclusion

The Transpennine Route Upgrade is progressing with bridge enhancements, track renewals, and electrification initiatives across West Yorkshire. These projects, managed through collaborative efforts and significant investment, aim to deliver a faster, greener, and more reliable railway. Upcoming service disruptions are scheduled, and passengers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.

Company Summary

Northern: A train operating company.

TransPennine Express: A train operating company.

Technology

OLE: Overhead line equipment.

TRU: Transpennine Route Upgrade.

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