Final plans announced for West Yorkshire passengers over the Christmas period

On these three days, platforms 1-5 will be closed to allow work to continue on a major project to construct a new platform at the station, test new signalling equipment, make changes to the track layout and install new overhead line equipment.

Capacity will therefore be reduced at Leeds while the work is carried out. Network Rail and Northern have worked hard to keep as many trains running as possible, but there will be some changes to services. Passengers are advised to check before travelling via National Rail Enquiries, or with their train operator.

As announced on Monday, 18 November, the biggest impact to services will be felt on the Harrogate to Leeds service, where there will be no direct rail link while improvement works are carried out. A rail replacement bus service will operate between Leeds and Horsforth.

Today (Wednesday, 3 December) Network Rail and Northern announced final changes to services in and out of Leeds as they keep things moving while the major improvement works are carried out at the station over Christmas.

Passengers travelling between Leeds and Bradford will need to use Bradford Interchange, as there will be no direct services to Forster Square. Passengers at Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge are advised to use the Skipton to Leeds service instead.

Trains from Hull to Halifax will start and terminate at Leeds. Services between Leeds and Halifax will be slightly reduced, with three services running per hour instead of four. Services between Leeds and Blackpool will also call at Bramley to maintain three trains per hour for passengers using this station.

Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East Route, said: “The work we are carrying out over Christmas is hugely important and will keep plans to transform Leeds station well on track.

“Losing capacity at five platforms in the station means this is a significant piece of work. We’ve worked really hard with our partners at Northern to keep disruption to an absolute minimum, and maintain the maximum possible services into Leeds while the upgrade is underway.

“We know this work will cause some inconvenience and we’re really sorry for anyone whose journey is affected. Ultimately, this work will bring a more reliable and resilient railway for the 30million plus passengers who use Leeds station every year.”

Steve Hopkinson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “This vital work being carried out by Network Rail will pave the way for better journeys for our customers.

“The improvement work is part of detailed plans to improve the rail infrastructure and, when complete, will enable the station to operate more efficiently and build-in improved reliability and punctuality. The new platform at Leeds will also allow Northern to operate our longer brand-new trains from Leeds, giving customers a significant step-change in journey experience.

“We are working hard to keep delays and disruption to an absolute minimum and I’m grateful for the understanding and patience I am sure our customers will show during the work.”