Network Rail is reminding passengers to check before they travel ahead of planned engineering works at Leeds station this Saturday and Sunday which will mean buses are used to ensure passengers can still get to where they need to go.
Much of the station will be closed (Saturday, 31 and Sunday, 01 November) as part of ongoing work to create the new Platform Zero – a £161m project due to complete at the end of this year – that will enable more trains in and out of the station and help to meet future rail demand.
To make sure the construction work can take place safely, train services will have to be temporarily halted with buses used instead along several key routes*.
Matt Rice, North and East Route Director for Network Rail, said: “This exciting work at Leeds station will create the first new platform at the station in nearly 20 years. The short-term disruption over this weekend allows us to get one step closer to establishing long-lasting benefits for passengers including more frequent and reliable journeys that Platform Zero will provide.
“We’ve made sure that there will be a comprehensive bus replacement plan in place so that you can still get to where you need to go. However, we would strongly advise you to check National Rail Enquiries or your local train operators’ website before you travel and we thank you in advance for your understanding.”
During the weekend work, Network Rail engineers will focus on upgrading the signalling systems and connecting overhead line equipment. Platform 1 will also reopen to passengers on Monday, 2 November, meaning the temporary platform will close.
Network Rail is also reminding passengers that they must wear a face covering or mask on public transport, unless they are exempt, or risk being fined £200 for a first offence. There is a one-way system in operation at the station and passengers are advised to travel at quieter times if possible. Local rules should also be followed with regards to travelling between different tier areas, particularly tier 3 zones.
* These routes into/out of Leeds include Guiseley, Bradford Interchange, York, Doncaster, Sheffield, Horsforth, Pontefract Monkhill, Knottingley, Castleford, Wakefield and Huddersfield. Buses will pick up at each station along the affected routes. The pick-up point at Leeds station for buses going out of Leeds will be New Station Street and the drop-off point for passengers coming into Leeds will be at Sovereign Street.
Photo credit: Network Rail
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