After more than two years of work, Platform Zero has been completed at Leeds train station - and could help end commuter chaos.
The new platform will initially be used during times of disruption, helping to get trains and passengers moving if there are problems elsewhere in the station.
Platform Zero also means more trains with new timetables next year - and therefore more seats for commuters.
Work on the £161million investment began back in 2018 to overhaul the busiest train station in the north of England.
Over Christmas final work to the overhead lines, track and signalling systems took place, as well as rigorous testing to make sure the platform was ready for train services.
Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East Route, said: "Over the last two years, we have invested heavily into Leeds railway station to create a transport hub which the city can be proud of and which offers a warm welcome to visitors.
"The completion of the platform is a huge part of this work and will make journeys more punctual and reliable for all those travelling to, from or through Leeds. The platform will help to make things easier during times of disruption, meaning fewer delays for passengers and getting them on the move again more quickly."
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "The completion of Platform 0 is an important milestone in improving Leeds railway station as a key transport hub. It will enhance the region’s infrastructure and is a boost for the north.
“I want to say a huge thank you to the hundreds of Network Rail engineers who worked tirelessly over the festive period to complete this platform, which will improve punctuality and reliability for passengers for years to come.”
Cllr Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Completing Platform 0 is extremely positive news for Leeds and the wider region, because it is a step towards securing the improved regional and national connectivity we so desperately need to better connect our towns and cities, and boost our economic recovery.
“The increased capacity on the rail network that Platform 0 provides means more people will travel through our city station. This demonstrates the importance of our partnership work under the Leeds Integrated Station Masterplan to improve the station experience for the benefit of current and future rail users.”
To allow for the construction of Platform 0, the long-stay car park has been closed since late 2018.
This will re-open in the coming months.
