Transpennine Route Upgrade

A key part of the TRU is the electrification of the route, which requires significant preparation work at several locations to install overhead line equipment. For example, a number of road bridges require their parapets to be higher, which will have a visual impact and require approval through the planning process before they can be upgraded.

Working alongside the TRU West Alliance, we have produced the visuals at several locations for inclusion in the planning submissions, showing the proposed extensions to the existing bridge parapets. We created these using a combination of photomontage and modelling to successfully articulate what the alterations will look like, including the use of specific materials in line with the existing structures.

We have also produced visuals to support works to road bridges at Romney Street, Richmond and Little Moss, with several other locations in the pipeline.

The TRU programme will facilitate significant improvement of capacity and journey times on the Huddersfield-Westtown line. Following work undertaken to identify and review options within the eight-mile section of railway, it has been agreed that the programme should deliver an electrified four-track railway with a grade separated junction in the Ravensthorpe area. As part of this, improvements will be made to the four stations on the route: Huddersfield, Deighton, Mirfield and Ravensthorpe.

As part of the platform extension works, the existing roof canopy requires alteration to cover the new track alignment. The existing trainshed roof is Grade I Listed and is one of the last surviving examples of a ‘Euston truss roof’, a large span roof engineering design utilised during the station expansion period in the 1880s. Given the historical value, it has been decided that the existing train shed roof will be retained. To meet modern standards, strengthening and refurbishment works will be undertaken, such as improving maintenance access via open-mesh walkways.

Following a historical assessment of the retained roof, it was confirmed the roof was originally designed in a ‘lantern’ style, which would have provided shelter and improved ventilation of the space below. To increase passenger comfort and maintain historic fabric, the lantern element will be reinstated as part of the refurbishment works.

The two smaller trainshed roofs, which will be directly impacted by the new track alignment, require replacement. To complement the existing architecture and engage with the surrounding landscape, the proposed form for the new roof consists of two large ‘blades’, welcoming views from the station entrance point through to the Grade II Listed former goods yard and warehouses, next to the platforms.

The track realignment will bring improvements to the station layout, enabling trains to pass through at higher speeds and helping to ease congestion of faster trains behind slower trains at peak times.

As part of the planned station remodelling works, we are proposing to use our standardised footbridge design. This will include lift shafts and motor rooms, constructed using a small palette of contrasting materials to promote wayfinding and requiring minimum signage for legibility. This element will provide step-free access whilst complementing the local architecture.

To accommodate new pedestrian access to the footbridge, we are also seeking to deliver the construction of a new pedestrian entrance from Station Road and modifications to the car park. To consolidate access around a central point, this would also involve relocating concourse access to the opposite side of the road, improving natural daylight and lift access.

To support the TRU’s goal of improving journey times along the route, a grade separation structure at Ravensthorpe is proposed. This would enable the fast lines to cross above the Wakefield and slow lines without conflict. To facilitate this, we have proposed the demolition and relocation of this station 200m to the west.

Designs include a new footbridge, adapted to meet the needs of the station, including a single lift tower and storage area under the staircase. Improvements to accessibility would be made through the construction of a new forecourt, providing three blue-badge bays where there is currently no station parking provision.

To accommodate the provision of OLE, modifications and strengthening works are proposed to the existing footbridge. Changes proposed for the footbridge include the addition of cladding panels which would be detachable for inspection maintenance, new lockable casement window units and replacement timber decking. All new details would be profiled and coloured in respect of symmetry and consistency with the existing structure.

To improve the accessibility and comfort for all passengers, further proposed changes include the replacement of the existing cycle shed on Platform 2 with a bespoke, heated waiting shelter which will be wheelchair / double pushchair accessible. There will also be step-free access between all drop off points and platforms.

As part of the TRU programme, we worked with a multidisciplinary team to successfully deliver refurbishment and remodelling works at Morley Station. To minimise disruption for train users and station staff, the works were carried out in phases. To complete these works as quickly and efficiently as possible, the station was temporarily closed throughout the main construction work, enabling the teams to reduce any risk to the general public or the station staff.

The first phase took just nine days to complete, and included the construction of new platforms, the installation of new screens and upgrade works to the existing facilities. Several of the existing platforms and a footbridge were demolished to make way for replacements.

Further phases saw the installation of the new footbridge and wayfinding improvements to make the station fully accessible and ensure a seamless travel experience for all passengers.

Unlike other stations on the route, Batley does not require a fundamental redesign of location and alignment. To accommodate the new track formation, the proposed works involve infilling the existing subway and modifications to the platforms.

Further upgrades proposed include the creation of a new footbridge with lifts, internal alterations to the station building and the addition of two accessible waiting shelters.

We are also facilitating the relocation of the Jo Cox memorial, currently situated within the station. We are proposing to move the memorial to the forecourt at the front of the station building, opening up access to all people rather than just those using the station.