Landslip-hit Knottingley-Pontefract line reopens after seven-week repair

More than 197ft (60m) of track was removed and replaced as part of repair work, Network Rail said

Trains are running once again on a West Yorkshire railway line after a landslip forced its closure for seven weeks.

The line between Knottingley and Pontefract Monkhill was shut in March after a section of the embankment fell.

More than 2,000 tonnes of stone had since been put in place and 197ft (60m) of new track fitted, Network Rail said.

The operator said the landslip was believed to have been caused by wet weather, but also by voids in the land caused by mineral mining in the area.

Services resumed on Monday morning, with Network Rail thanking passengers for their patience.

The landslip originally led to the closure of the entire line between Leeds and Knottingley, which also serves stations in Wakefield, Featherstone, Pontefract and Streethouse.

Trains were later allowed to resume on part of the route between Leeds and Pontefract Monkhill.

'Major repair'

Jason Hamilton, route director for Network Rail's North and East route, said: "I want to say a huge thank you to our passengers and line-side neighbours for their understanding, patience, and acceptance during the disruption they have faced - and of the need to work around-the-clock close to their homes.

"I'm delighted we have completed this major repair work so the people of Knottingley and the surrounding areas can once again travel freely by train."

Mr Hamilton added that Network Rail's engineers had worked "incredibly hard" over the last seven weeks to carry out the work "as quickly and as safely as possible".

"We will continue to monitor the embankment to make sure trains can continue to pass safely through the area," he said.

Kerry Peters, regional director for train operator Northern, said: "Our colleagues at Network Rail have worked round-the-clock to make the line safe for our customers.

"We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by the people affected by this issue over recent weeks."