Rail upgrades prompt route changes. Crane lifts support bridge work near Colne Bridge during the two-day closure.
A crane lifted bridge parts at Colne Bridge. Trains from Manchester to Dewsbury changed routes, going via the Calder Valley line instead. Trains did not stop at Huddersfield, but stopped at Brighouse instead. Buses ran between Brighouse and Huddersfield, leaving every fifteen minutes.
Colne Bridge had very noticeable work. A huge crane arrived there for the weekend. That crane positioned concrete walls. These walls are abutments for a new bridge. The new bridge supports Bridge Road, crossing over the railway line.
The old road bridge is being partially torn down. It has a Grade II listing and was built around 1850. Electrification and realignment each need more space under the bridge.
They are building the new bridge away from the road, reducing traffic problems. Many other projects happened along the line while it was closed. Machines worked on tracks near Wheatley’s Colliery Bridge, also doing some piling work there. Strengthening work continued at Huddersfield Viaduct, allowing four tracks above roads.
Bradford Road in Huddersfield closed again. Work on the viaduct above continued, with a crane and scaffolding present. Workers lifted concrete beams into place.
Two long trains sat at Huddersfield Station on Sunday, holding fresh ballast for the tracks. The station’s roof restoration is progressing well. They are adding a lantern structure. This replicates the original roof. The station project should finish by early 2027.
The entire TRU project may cost £11.5 billion total, with the station part costing £70 million. They are building two new platforms at the station and extending the current platforms. The upgrades will improve access, add bathrooms, and track changes will allow more trains.
Elsewhere, work progresses at Ravensthorpe where they are moving that station. Earthworks are happening for a new junction and they are also building the Baker Viaduct, going over the river.