Work is to start this week on the transformation of Huddersfield Railway Station.

As part of the TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU) the grade I-listed station is to undergo a complete internal modernisation to accommodate three tracks and electrification.

There will be longer platforms, a new enclosed roof and a new footbridge.

Preserving the history of the station is vital and part of the scheme involves the careful dismantling and removal of the timber-boarded tea rooms, also known as the waiting room area.

The tea room will go into storage elsewhere before being brought back and rebuilt as part of the new layout of platforms 3 and 4.

While the waiting room area is out of use, a temporary toilet block will be installed at the Manchester end of platform 4. These toilet facilities will include a fully accessible toilet with baby changing facilities.

Hoardings will be installed around the tea rooms this week as the dismantling begins. From early 2024, preparation work will start on the refurbishment of the trainshed roof.

This is said to be one of the few remaining large-scale ‘Euston roof’ examples on the operational railway network today.

A site compound will be created and scaffold towers will be installed along platforms 1 and 4, allowing a work platform to be erected. The work will consist of grit blasting, painting and re-roofing.

The works will see two 30-day complete closures of the station around Easter 2025 and Easter 2026. These closures are known as “blockades” and a temporary platform will be installed at Hillhouse for use while the station is shut.

The TRU is providing jobs and investment for the local economy. Around 65% of the TRU workforce lives within 25 miles and an estimated £343 million is being spent with local businesses.

As part of the wider rail upgrade, stations at Marsden, Slaithwaite and Deighton will be rebuilt, improving access for disabled people.

Historic tea rooms at Huddersfield Railway Station to be dismantled piece by piece

Paul Sumner, senior sponsor on the TRU, said: “Huddersfield Station is an iconic building and an intrinsic part of West Yorkshire heritage, so whilst this series of improvements are necessary, the restoration and retention of its historic features is of paramount importance.

“That’s why – after an extensive in-depth planning process – the TransPennine Route Upgrade will bring the station up to modern standards in terms of functionality, without harming its cultural and traditional significance.”

Chris Nutton, major projects director for TransPennine Express, said: “Huddersfield Station will undergo major changes over the next few years, which will enable, faster and more frequent trains to call there and provide better facilities for the millions of passengers who use the station every year.

“We would like to thank our customers in advance for their understanding and patience as we work together with colleagues from Network Rail to transform Huddersfield into a station fit for the 21st century.”

Over three million passengers travelled through Huddersfield Station last year and that number is expected to grow.

How the new Huddersfield Railway Station could look