Northern urges train passengers to check new timetables ahead of December rail changes

Northern train at Liverpool Lime Street train station, (photo: Katie Bowers) Northern is urging customers to check before they travel, as the timetable for train services will be changing from Sunday, December 14. The update forms part of the national timetable change, which takes place every May and December across the UK rail network. Many of the adjustments being introduced next weekend are designed to support wider improvements taking place across the rail network. Northern said passengers, in particular those travelling in the North East, can expect new routes, faster journeys and revised train times to make rail travel more convenient and reliable. In addition to the timetable changes, travellers should be aware of several service alterations across the Christmas and New Year period, due to engineering works. Notably, the line between Leeds and York will be closed from Christmas until late January as part of the ongoing Transpennine Route Upgrade. To help customers plan ahead, Northern has highlighted several journey-planning tools: Northern's timetable check tool which allows users to compare old and new schedules Northern app which provides real-time updates, ticket purchasing and service notifications National Rail Enquiries journey planner which offers detailed information on timetables, engineering works and travel options Matt Rice, Chief Operating Officer for Northern said: 'We are pleased to be able to offer later trains in the evening following customer feedback on some of our routes, and extra train during peak times.' He added: 'I'd urge customers to check their journeys in advance as there will be some significant changes in place, particularly during the December engineering period.'