Kirklees Council has appointed rail development consultancy, SLC, to develop the Outline Business Case to transform rail travel on the Penistone Line, which runs between Huddersfield and Sheffield.
The scenic line links major towns and smaller stations across South and West Yorkshire and provides vital access to jobs, education and leisure.
Planned enhancements explored in the Outline Business Case include increasing train speeds, upgrading rail infrastructure, and doubling sections of track to enable two trains per hour in both directions on the northern section of the line. The work will also explore opportunities to modernise stations, improving passenger experience and accessibility.
The proposed improvements aim to connect communities better, complementing the wider upgrades also being delivered by the Transpennine Route Upgrade to improve journeys between Huddersfield, Manchester and York.
Sam Uren, Director of SLC, said: “Connectivity is a key driver for growth, and the Penistone Line has the potential to serve its region better through a series of targeted improvements.
“We’re looking forward to working with Kirklees Council and partners to develop the case for how these initiatives can be realised for the people of Yorkshire.”
Councillor Moses Crook, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport and Housing said:
“We are thrilled that Kirklees Council has been awarded this vital funding to improve our rail network – and now the green light to begin making progress towards delivery. This is more than just investment in our railways – it’s an investment in our communities and will make a real difference to residents living along the Penistone Line route and across Kirklees.
“The improvements will bring more reliable trains with better journey times between Huddersfield and Sheffield and will help to boost our local economy, support growth in Kirklees and improve connectively across the north.
“The Penistone Line is a crucial transport link, and it’s all part of our plans to make the Kirklees economy stronger, more regionally integrated and greener for future generations. These upgrades will open greater opportunities in education, employment, skills and health and wellbeing for residents across Kirklees.”
