Mirfield canal towpath upgrade
A newly resurfaced canal towpath around Mirfield's Memorial Park was officially opened on Friday 1 August 2025 - offering the local community a greener, safer and more accessible route to and from Mirfield Railway Station.
These works were completed by the Canal and River Trust in summer 2025 as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade's (TRU) 'First and Last Mile' project which aims to improve journeys to and from rail stations along the route between Manchester and York.
The following upgrades were delivered:
- Upgrades to 1.2 kilometres of towpath - improving it for walkers and wheelers and with a robust surface to stand strong against adverse weather.
- Historic features of the canal have been restored to bring a new lease of life to cobbled areas and canal banks.
- A new accessible picnic bench has been installed; another bench has been relocated and a third has been repainted.
- Canal and River Trust volunteers have enhanced the flower garden by Gill Bridge to create a more inviting space.
- Access to Mirfield Memorial Park has been improved with new steps which replace a muddy slope. New paths have been added within the park and exits have been enhanced with handrails.
- As part of the council's Playable Spaces programme, the play area in Mirfield Memorial Ground has seen major refurbishment and the péntanque courts have been extended.
These upgrades now mean it is easier, safer and more accessible to get to Mirfield railway station by Walking, wheeling, and cycling. It also allows residents the opportunity to enjoy the greenery and nature of the park and canal.
Additional information
Find out more about the Transpennine Route Upgrade , a multi-billion pound Network Rail project.
