Station bridge and lifts provide step-free access

A new footbridge and lifts have been installed at Batley station, providing step-free access to both platforms for the first time.

The work has been carried out by Network Rail as part of the ongoing Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU).

A spokesperson for Network Rail said further improvements to the station, including new waiting shelters and the reopening of the car park, were expected to be completed in the spring.

Gwen Lowe, from the Friends of Batley station, said: "Step-free access will make a real difference for many passengers, helping ensure the railway is accessible and welcoming to everyone."

Jonathan Hepton, project sponsor for TRU, added: "Improving accessibility across the Transpennine route is a core benefit of the programme, so this is another major milestone for us."

The TRU is a multibillion-pound project aimed at bringing bring faster, more frequent and more reliable railway journeys between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York.

Elsewhere in West Yorkshire, Network Rail said new stations had already been built at Morley and Mirfield as part of the TRU, while work to upgrade Huddersfield station is ongoing.

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