A report by Network Rail has highlighted the potential for passenger growth into Leeds Rail Station to increase by 20% in the next four years, and by as much as 68% by 2029.

The Northern Route Utilisation Strategy identifies current and future overcrowding on several key West Yorkshire routes, including north trans-Pennine services between Leeds and Huddersfield, Airedale and Wharfedale services from Ilkley and Skipton and on services from Wakefield Westgate. It recommends lengthening several key commuter services, providing track improvements at places such as Horsforth and additional platforms at Leeds.

"Network Rail's report confirms what West Yorkshire train passengers have known for some time; that patronage is increasing while investment in new carriages and services hasn't grown to match," said Metro Chairman Cllr Chris Greaves.

"Northern's franchise was famously let as a 'no-growth' franchise, yet it now carries over a third more passengers than it did when it started in 2004. Working with Metro and Yorkshire Forward, a few extra carriages were leased in 2006 but they are nowhere near enough to meet the current demand, let alone the predicted 20% growth in the next four years and 68% by 2029.

"Metro has consistently argued for high-speed rail, but we also recognise that investment in the so-called 'classic' railway is long overdue, if we are to meet our targets for economic growth and reductions in harmful CO₂. Planning for new carriages and electrified routes needs to start now, before the local rail network buckles under the strain."