The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) has reached a significant milestone, following five consecutive weekends of intensive engineering work between Leeds and York to advance electrification of the line.

As part of the ongoing upgrades, engineers have now installed 7.5 kilometres of overhead line equipment (OLE) wiring between Micklefield and Church Fenton. This latest progress builds on earlier mast installation and is key to delivering faster, greener rail journeys across the north of England.

The electrification work in this stretch brings the project a step closer to connecting electric passenger services between York and Church Fenton, due to launch in the coming months. This follows the successful introduction of electric services between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge in 2024.

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In Cross Gates, major infrastructure improvements were also completed, including the safe demolition and replacement of the Station Road bridge, clearing the way for future OLE installation in the area.

Elsewhere, around 750 metres of track have been renewed between Killingbeck and Cross Gates, supporting smoother and more reliable services. A new track crossover was installed to improve operational flexibility, enabling trains to switch lines and maintain service continuity during future construction phases.

Adam Sellers, senior sponsor for TRU, said: "This latest series of upgrades has taken us a step closer to the electrification of the route between York and Manchester. Wiring is now in place in the Barkston Ash area, whilst Cross Gates station can now facilitate the installation of OLE masts.

"Work to deliver cleaner, greener services throughout this area will continue throughout the year, whilst attention also turns to the introduction of electric passenger services nearby, which is another huge milestone for the programme."