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Airedale and Wharfedale line platform extensions

To enable Northern to run longer trains with more seats in the future, we’re extending the platforms at stations along the Airedale and Wharfedale lines in West Yorkshire.

This project is now underway and will be completed by July 2024.

What work is taking place?

We’re providing longer platforms at eight stations along the lines linking Leeds and Bradford Forster Square with Skipton and Ilkley.

The ends of the existing platforms will be demolished, then spoil and earth will be excavated and removed to allow new foundations to be installed. This will enable the new sections of platform to be constructed.

The stations will remain open at all times and train services will not be affected, however there will be temporary changes to station car parks to allow the improvement works to take place.

When is the work taking place?

Work at each station is expected to take between three and five months, depending on the individual station.

  • Apperley Bridge – February 2024 to August 2024
  • Bingley – October 2023 to February 2024
  • Burley In Wharfedale – July 2023 to March 2024
  • Guiseley – October 2023 to February 2024
  • Kirkstall Forge – May 2024 to August 2024
  • Menston – July 2023 to March 2024
  • Saltaire – April 2024 to September 2024
  • Shipley – February 2024 to November 2024 

How will this work affect me?

Work will be carried out at times that cause the least disruption to the travelling public, which means that some of the work will be overnight and at weekends.

Due to the nature of the work and the equipment used, people near the railway at these eight locations are likely to experience some noise disruption. We will write to those affected to advise them when work will be taking place and will make every effort to minimise noise.

Why is the work needed?

Extending the platforms will enable six-carriage trains to be used on services on the Airedale and Wharfedale lines in the future, instead of the current maximum of four. This means travellers will be able to benefit from much-needed extra seating capacity at busy times.

The additional platform space also means there is more space for passengers to wait and get on and off train services, which speeds up the boarding process and can reduce delays and improve performance.

Get in touch

If you have any questions or comments about the project, visit out contact us page or call our 24-Hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41.

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