Package of works completes as part of Transpennine Route Upgrade

Engineers have delivered a series of major works as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) over the Christmas and New Year that will support faster and more frequent train journeys between Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire.

Engineers made a significant progress at a number of key locations along the route in West Yorkshire, while a closure of the line between Leeds and York enabled the installation and testing of new signalling and track upgrades that will support a more efficient railway in the future.

The TRU is a £10.7 billion-pound railway programme that will transform journeys across the North and will deliver full electrification of the line between Manchester, Leeds and York, reduce journey times and delays and increase the frequency and capacity for both passengers and freight across the region.

James Richardson, Managing Director for Transpennine Route Upgrade, said:

“Over Christmas and New Year, we have successfully delivered an immense amount of work to plan between York, Leeds and Manchester. I’d like to thank not only the TRU team, but also the customers and neighbours affected by the works.

“We are committed to delivering this incredible programme, supporting our passengers and communities, and making a real difference to the North of England.

“In 2026 we’ll build on this success with more electrification and more station improvements, while continuing to support passengers with their journeys, as we deliver stronger rail connections for a stronger North.”

2026 will see more significant project achievements delivered, with a number of key milestones on target for throughout the year.