Airport rail scheme will bring town London link

A NEW London to Harrogate connection as part of the planned Leeds Bradford Airport Parkway station will be a “game-changer” for commuters, a local MP has said.

The Yorkshire Post understands advanced talks are under way which will see LNER (London North Eastern Railway, formerly Virgin Trains East Coast) run six trains per day on the Harrogate line, with the new airport station set to be the key stop between London and Harrogate.

The connection would also cut journey times to Leeds from Harrogate down to 12 minutes.

Details of the proposal follow a meeting between Leeds North West MP Alex Sobel, Leeds Bradford Airport, Network Rail, LNER, Northern Rail and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

The aim was to discuss ways to secure an early delivery of the new station, as well as wider issues such as reducing car traffic on the A660 and improving air quality.

Mr Sobel said he has set his sights on an early delivery for the Parkway station, which is currently earmarked for completion in 2023. He added that he had secured a commitment from LNER over the new London connection for six trains a day on the Harrogate line.

“A London connection to the new station is a game changer for our area creating jobs and growth in our local community,” he said.

“This new station will not only attract investment to the airport, creating local jobs, but will provide a viable heavy rail alternative with a park and ride, to commuters in North Leeds and Wharfedale.”

LNER’s commercial manager Paul Smith said: “Our aim at LNER is to continue to support the local community and economy through greater partnership working and making it even easier to travel by train.”