Exciting proposals for the extensive refurbishment of Keighley Station have been given the green light following years of pressure from local community groups and Keighley MP Robbie Moore regarding the lack of progress on the project.
The project, which is due to start in September, will see the refurbishment of the main station buildings, the strengthening of footbridges over rail lines, and repairs to the bridge over the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway line, with the project expected to extend the lifespan of the bridge by more than 30 years.
Replica Georgian glazing will also be installed, improving the look of the building and preserving the station's historical character, and enhanced station roof drainage systems will prevent water ingress, reducing the need for frequent interventions and safeguarding the station against future damage.
Initially announced in 2019 and backed by £9 million of ring-fenced funding, delays to the refurbishments drew anger and criticism from local residents, including the town’s MP Robbie Moore.
The MP met with representatives of Network Rail and Northern Rail in November 2022 to discuss the planned project, stating at the time “I am fed up of funds being allocated for projects but delivery being constantly delayed” and calling on both organisations to "get on with it”.
Mr Moore then elevated the issue to Parliament in February, with leader of the House of Commons Penny Mordaunt responding that the delays were “putting [Keighley’s] constituents at a disadvantage” and raising the matter directly with the Secretary of State for Transport.
The MP says he is “thrilled” by the news but will “continue to closely monitor progress” the project.
Robbie Moore MP said:
"After years of lobbying, numerous meetings with Network Rail and Northern and my repeated calls in Parliament for those involved in this project to be held accountable on its timely delivery, I am thrilled to see that plans for the refurbishment of Keighley Station have received the green light.
Keighley Station holds immense historical and cultural significance for our town and serves as a vital transport hub for our community. It is therefore fantastic to see the station finally getting the upgrades it deserves, which will no doubt secure our station long into the future.
Delays have hindered this project for far too long, and I will continue to closely monitor the progress of this project so that we can ensure these vital refurbishments are started by the September deadline.”
