Work on the long-awaited lifts at Todmorden Rail Station is set to begin in November 2026, with completion targeted for autumn 2027
Work on the long-delayed lifts at Todmorden Rail Station is set to begin in November. If the project stays on schedule, passengers could be using the new lifts as early as autumn 2027.
For many years, disabled passengers have struggled to access the Bradford and Leeds direction platform, which currently can only be reached by steps. While the Manchester platform does not require steps, it remains accessible only via a steep incline.
Funding for the upgrades has been secured for some time with the Department of Transport Access For All funding for the lifts being awarded for both platforms back in 2019. This followed a lengthy campaign, reports Yorkshire Live.
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However, repeated difficulties with contractors have continually pushed the scheme back, until Network Rail recently stepped in to take direct control of the project.
Network Rail has since updated Todmorden town councillors on progress, acknowledging their full understanding of the frustration surrounding the delays, while confirming the project is moving forward with Story Contracting and that funding remains in place.
“At present, work is expected to begin in November 2026,” they said.
Network Rail confirmed that an experienced team has been brought together to oversee the scheme.
“We are working to deliver it as quickly as possible, with the ambition of having it completed and available for passengers in autumn 2027,” they wrote. Calder Valley MP, Labour’s Josh Fenton-Glynn, who has campaigned and pushed for the lifts over a 12-year period, recently held discussions with Network Rail officials to advocate for the scheme once more.
Following the meeting, he stated on social media: “I was reassured to hear Network Rail’s commitment to getting the work going again and delivering the promised improvements as soon as possible.
“I know this is something that the community and councillors over the last few years have campaigned hard for, and it’s an issue I’ve raised with Transport Ministers in Parliament.”
During the spring months, Mr Fenton-Glynn and local activists including councillors gathered at the station to voice their exasperation over the hold-ups.
Local residents Paul Thompson and Meg Kennedy both outlined that while they can travel to Manchester, upon their return they must remain on the train until the subsequent stop beyond Todmorden, Hebden Bridge, which has accessible facilities.
Both explained that this then necessitates a taxi trip back home to Todmorden.
Paul recounted one occasion returning from Manchester, when he was forced to alight at Todmorden, leaving him with no alternative but to descend the platform steps on his backside during a winter’s day.
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