A multi-million pound transformation of the entrance to Leeds Station is fully complete – four years after engineering work started.
The £46.1m Leeds Station Sustainable Travel Gateway scheme, first due to be finished in autumn last year, was officially opened today (November 9).
Work on the project, which includes pedestrian routes, passenger lifts and a new taxi rank, started in 2022.
The project, which involved the city council, Network Rail and West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), also included maintenance work on the station’s underground supporting structure.
Safety hoardings at the front of the station have been removed after parts of the project opened in recent weeks.
Leeds City Council leader James Lewis said: “Leeds as a city is booming, and one of the truest indicators of our ongoing growth and appeal is the ever-rising number of people using our railway station.
“Currently, Leeds Station handles more than 27m passengers a year, with footfall inside the station rising six percent year on year and is now busier than before Covid.
“It is fundamental that we have a station that is not only easily able to meet current demand but is also fit for the future, providing a welcoming gateway for the many millions of passengers travelling into our city.”
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WYCA funded the project, which aimed to provide easier access to the station by walking, cycling or on public transport.
West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin said: “After years of complex engineering works, it’s fantastic to see this project open to the public.
“Leeds Station is the front door to West Yorkshire, and we thank people for their patience throughout this transformation, which creates a more welcoming and accessible gateway for residents, commuters and visitors.
Last month it was announced Leeds would get an extra £200m to boost passenger facilities and tackle overcrowding in the station.
Network Rail’s Jason Hamilton said: “Rail travel is a key driver of growth for Leeds and the wider north of England, and the completion of this really positive work opens up so much opportunity for the station and the city.”
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