A STUDY exploring ways to improve the North-East's rail freight network has been signed off to the tune of £1m.

Network Rail and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen agreed to share funding for the project aiming to resolve issues between Eaglescliffe to Northallerton on the East Coast Mainline, where low bridges and tunnels restrict the size of cargo containers.

Network Rail is providing £750,000 for the study, with £250,000 from the Tees Valley Combined Authority.

Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This investment isn’t eye-catching or sexy, but it’s necessary to ensure is Teesport able to keep growing for decades to come.

“As we leave the EU and become an outward, globally-trading nation once more, we need to throw our weight behind Teesport by ensuring our rail freight infrastructure is fit for purpose.

“We’ve already committed tens of millions to improve passenger services, with even more investment to come, but the investment with Network Rail will ensure our port is able to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.”