Network Rail will begin a project to upgrade the track on Skelton New Bridge, which sits on the line between York and Northallerton, as part of the Railway Upgrade Plan.

The £1million project begins on Saturday, 18 February and will be completed on Monday, 27 February. The upgrade will see the old track removed and a new track installed, as well as strengthening and repair work to the bridge.

Once completed, the upgrade will see the removal of a temporary speed restriction which has been in place since 2014. This removal will mean fewer delays for passengers and will make the railway more reliable.

As there are two sets of tracks which carry trains north in this area, this investment can be completed while passenger services run on the other lines, minimising disruption to passengers.

Gary Costello, project manager at Network Rail, said: “The work we are doing is a vital part of our Railway Upgrade Plan.

“We are replacing pieces of track which were laid in 1972. The new track will provide a smoother journey for passengers and will make the railway more reliable.

“I look forward to passengers seeing the benefit of the upgrade.”