FIRST LOOK AT LATEST THORPE PARK RAIL STATION PLANS
We’re pleased to share the latest plans for the proposed new Thorpe Park Rail Station, which will create a new rail connection between Thorpe Park Leeds, east Leeds and the city centre.
The new station is planned next to Thorpe Park Business Park, between Cross Gates and Garforth, on the Leeds to York section of the TransPennine railway line.
Designed as a brand-new, accessible station, it will provide faster journeys for rail passengers and significantly improve access to Thorpe Park and The Springs, including our established business community, shops, restaurants and leisure amenities. It will also provide park and ride facilities for commuters and rail passengers.
Journey times between Thorpe Park and Leeds Station are expected to be just 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.
A new transport connection for Thorpe Park and east Leeds
The proposed Thorpe Park Rail Station will feature two platforms, enabling a minimum of two services per hour in each direction, connecting Leeds with York and Hull.
Plans also include a lift and footbridge providing step-free access to the station, ticket machines and cycle parking, alongside a 300-space car park with Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, disabled bays and a dedicated drop-off and pick-up point.
The car park will enable more commuters to make park and ride journeys and is also intended to help alleviate pressure on Garforth Station car park, which is currently at capacity. There will be space to expand the Thorpe Park station car park in the future if required.
The station forms part of the West Yorkshire Mayor’s mission to deliver the Weaver Network – a seamless transport system connecting trains, buses, a future mass transit system, walking, wheeling and cycling to unlock easier journeys across the region.
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.”
Supporting better-connected communities across West Yorkshire
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.
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.”
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.”
Have your say
The full business case for the scheme is due to be submitted later this year and will be discussed at a future West Yorkshire Combined Authority meeting, with construction currently set to begin in 2027.
The consultation is open until the end of Tuesday 15 September 2026, giving businesses, residents, employees, visitors and the wider community an opportunity to review the latest proposals and provide feedback.
Find out more about the latest plans and have your say through the consultation here.