Leeds station opens new entrance

Commuters in Leeds will be able to enjoy quicker, easier journeys in 2016 as Transport Minister Andrew Jones officially opened the new £20 million southern entrance to the city’s railway station.

It is estimated that approximately 20,000 people a day will use the new entrance that provides a direct link to the city’s growing south bank area – opening up access to South Bank Central, Holbeck Urban Village and Leeds Dock and Hinterland development areas.

The entrance has additional customer information screens, ticket machines and automated ticket gates which will reduce congestion and improve the experience for all passengers using the station.

The government contributed £12.4 million towards the development which was delivered in partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Network Rail.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “The stunning entrance will make journeys quicker and more convenient for thousands of passengers every day. This is a further example of the Northern Powerhouse in action, improving lives for people and businesses in Leeds.

“We’re determined to provide Leeds and Yorkshire with a transport network to support its ambitions, with new rail franchises, new rail stations and major road upgrades to drive the region’s growth.”

The Leeds southern entrance opening follows the recent awarding of the Northern and TransPennine rail franchises that will ensure longer trains, more frequent services and provide space for more than 14,000 more passengers into Leeds and Sheffield during the morning rush hour.

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