Safety first: Here's why Network Rail is to begin cutting back trees between Outwood and Leeds train stations

The work to manage vegetation between the two railway stations will reduce the risk of trees falling onto the tracks, and of the infamous ‘leaves on the line’ which causes significant delays for train passengers.

Teams have been working closely with an independent ecologist to ensure that the impact of the work on the environment is minimal.

The area will be thoroughly checked to see if nesting birds and protected species are present before the vegetation is cleared.

The project will begin this month (May 2023) and will continue until March 2024, and any trees that pose a risk will be cut-back or removed.

Richard Cunningham, senior asset engineer for Network Rail’s North and East Route, said: “With 20,000 miles of track and millions of trees growing on the lineside, managing vegetation on the railway is one of our most important safety issues.

“We realise that removing trees and vegetation can impact local communities, however this work is vital to reduce the risks that trees and overgrown vegetation can pose to the railway, including damaging overhead lines, passing trains and obscuring signals.

"Adverse weather conditions can cause trees to fall onto the tracks, causing thousands of hours of disruption for passengers every year, so this work is essential in order to maintain a safe and reliable railway.

“I would encourage anybody with questions to attend one of our information events, either in-person or online and we will be more than happy to explain our plans in detail.”

A public information event is being held so that residents can come and find out more about this work. This will be held at Dewsbury Road Community Hub and Library, 190 Dewsbury Road, Leeds, LS11 6PF on Monday, May 15 between 5.30pm and 6.45pm.

And a virtual event will also be held via Microsoft Teams Live on Wednesday, May 17 between 5.30pm and 6.15pm. To join, visit: https://bit.ly/3maA74C

Network Rail own, operate and develop Britain's 20,000 miles of railway track, including 30,000 bridges, tunnels and viaducts across the UK.