We're replacing the A656 Ridge Road Bridge between Garforth and Micklefield

As part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade’s programme of improvements to deliver more frequent, faster, greener trains on a better, more reliable railway, we're electrifying the line between York, Leeds and Manchester to provide the power for cleaner, quieter electric trains.
To do this, we need to reconstruct the A656 Ridge Road overbridge, as it is currently too low to accommodate the overhead electric line equipment.
 
Northern Gas Networks also has a high-pressure gas main that runs via a separate pipe bridge over the railway, located next to the road bridge.
 
We carried out a public consultation to share our proposals with the local community and hear their feedback on our plans during October and November 2022.

In October 2024, the Secretary of State for Transport approved a Transport and Works Act Order, granting us permission to deliver this and a number of other major elements of the Transpennine Route Upgrade between Leeds and Micklefield.

What will we be doing?

We will be demolishing and reconstructing the bridges.
 
The gas main pipe bridge will be diverted first via micro-tunnel under the railway. This will not require a road closure.
 
Works will be carried out to divert the utility services which run across the bridge before the main bridge structure is replaced.
 
Utility services will then be relocated back into their new permanent position before the road is re-opened.

How will I be affected?

The A656 Ridge Road will be closed for 9 months between 2 March – 4 December 2026

Traffic will be diverted via the A63 and A642 along a clearly signposted diversionary route, shown below:

The footway over the bridge and a short section of the footpath to the north of the railway line leading up to Ridge Road will also need to be closed. Diversion information for pedestrians will be provided shortly.