By Leah Conway –
The area around Huddersfield train station is on track to be regenerated to help improve the connectivity to the rest of the town – collectively known as the ‘Railway Station Gateway.’
Kirklees Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve adjusted plans and give the go-ahead for a public consultation in their meeting on 22 June. If approved, it would accompany the upcoming Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU).
The council has been working in partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and TransPennine Express to develop the ‘Railway Station Gateway plans.’
The train station improvements are one of six key regeneration areas in Huddersfield’s 10-year Blueprint vision for the town.
“Make Huddersfield a first-class destination”
Councillor Peter McBride, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said:”Whilst Huddersfield Railway Station is already a striking arrival place for visitors; these plans will deliver a high-quality public space surrounding it and improve connectivity to the town centre.
“The new infrastructure will not only enhance the station forecourt but will improve pedestrian access with the bus station via Trinity Street and offer better movement around the space.
“Providing better access to public transport, increasing active travel, like walking and cycling opportunities, and adding additional park and ride spaces will encourage people out of their cars and help us to reduce carbon emissions.
“We are agreeing these improvements at the same time as accelerating the Cultural Heart programme to make Huddersfield a first-class destination for residents and visitors. Our transport plans are an integral part of making the town welcoming, accessible and a draw for even greater investment.”
What to expect for the ‘Railway Station Gateway’
The scope of the project has been adjusted to complement the future TRU. Improvements include a new platform and possibly new facilities such as new cafes, restaurants, and retail.
There are plans to improve the areas around the station. Including enhancing three routes for walking, cycling, and public transport.
There are proposals to interconnect Huddersfield through public transport links connecting Huddersfield sites such as:
- Kirkgate/Trinity Street – The Trinity West mixed-use development (former Kirklees College) site and Greenhead College
- Northumberland Street – connecting to the University of Huddersfield’s proposed health innovation campus at Southgate on the route to the St John’s Smith’s Stadium
- John William Street/St John’s Road – joining the new Huddersfield Market in Brook Street and Cambridge Road car park.
The plans also include various improvements for the ring road’s crossing facilities. The underpass and existing crossings could be uprgraded or a foot/cycle bridge constructed.
Funding will come from a revised application to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority under the Transforming Cities Fund and the West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund.
The report went to the council’s Cabinet meeting yesterday – 23 June – where Members were asked to give the go-ahead to start public consultation on the plans this September.
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