First look at latest Thorpe Park Rail Station plans – for shorter journeys across Leeds

People can have their say on the latest plans for a new railway station which will create a new link between east Leeds and the city centre.

Thorpe Park Rail Station will be built next to Thorpe Park Business Park, between Cross Gates and Garforth, on the Leeds to York section of the TransPennine railway line.

The brand new, accessible station has been designed to provide faster journeys for rail passengers, easier access to the offices, shops and restaurants in The Springs, and park and ride journeys for commuters and rail passengers.
 
Journey times to Leeds Station will be between 10-12 minutes.

The scheme will be delivered by Network Rail in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, in consultation with Leeds City Council.

Thorpe Park will have two train platforms, enabling a minimum of two services per hour in each direction (Leeds to York and Leeds to Hull). The plans also include a lift and footbridge for step-free access to the station, ticket machines, cycle parking, and a 300-space car park including Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, disabled bays, and a drop-off and pick-up point. 

This is part of the West Yorkshire Mayor’s mission to deliver the Weaver Network – a seamless transport system that will connect trains, buses, a future mass transit system, walking, wheeling and cycling to unlock easier journeys across the region.

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said:

“Quick and reliable transport is essential for helping people, communities and businesses to thrive.

“Our brand-new station will deliver faster commutes, boost our economy and reduce congestion on our roads.

“Our Weaver Network will help us build a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has already delivered new stations at Low Moor, Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge.

Overall, the Combined Authority has built or upgraded ten bus and rail stations – investing £111 million in improving journeys across the region.

Jason Hamilton, Route Director for Network Rail N&E said:

"We're delighted to be partnering with WYCA to develop plans for the new Thorpe Park station. Connecting communities to opportunity through rail connectivity is central to growth in the North and we're proud to be able to play a part in delivering this for West Yorkshire."

Councillor Peter Carlill, Executive Member for Transport and Planning on Leeds City Council said:

"Thorpe Park Rail Station will be a major boost for east Leeds, providing faster journeys and better connections for residents, workers and visitors alike.

"The new station will improve access to the employment, retail and leisure opportunities at Thorpe Park and The Springs, while helping more people travel into Leeds city centre and across the wider region by rail.

"As part of our wider plans for an integrated transport network, this investment will make public transport a more convenient choice and support the continued growth of east Leeds.

"I encourage everyone to take a look at the proposals and have their say through the consultation."

John Handley, Managing Director for Redrow Yorkshire said:

"Redrow has invested significantly in East Leeds over many years, delivering new homes and helping to create sustainable communities at Thorpe Park and Centurion Fields. Subject to planning, we’re also looking forward to delivering up to 649 new homes across two further sites at Red Hall Lane and Manston Lane. The proposed Thorpe Park Rail Station represents another important step in the area's continued growth and regeneration.

"Improved rail connectivity would bring significant benefits for current and future residents, providing faster, more convenient access to Leeds city centre and the wider region, while helping to reduce reliance on car travel. We’re pleased to support this consultation and would encourage everyone with an interest in the area to have their say as the plans progress."

Adam Varley, Development Director for Scarborough Group International said:

"This is a transformational opportunity for Thorpe Park, the city of Leeds, and the wider city region. By creating a multi-modal transport hub at Thorpe Park, it will connect an established business community of 7,500 employees, a thriving retail and leisure destination, and a growing residential community with the city centre and beyond.

"As Thorpe Park and the communities within East Leeds continue to expand, the introduction of a station will reinforce its position as one of the UK’s most sustainable and well-connected suburban business locations. It will provide businesses with a compelling alternative to the city centre, combining outstanding connectivity, accessibility, and amenities within a high-quality setting, while supporting sustainable economic growth for Leeds."

The full business case for the scheme will be submitted later this year and discussed at a future Combined Authority meeting, with construction set to start in 2027.

The 300 car parking spaces at Thorpe Park Rail Station will enable park and ride journeys for more commuters, and aims to help alleviate pressure from Garforth Station car park which is at capacity.

The consultation is open from now until the end of Tuesday 15 September. Find out more about the latest plans and have your say here.