WORK on a £1million project to upgrade the railway track on Skelton New Bridge between York and Northallerton starts this weekend.

The work is part of Network Rail's Railway Upgrade Plan and will see the old track removed and a new track installed, as well as strengthening and repair work to the bridge.

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

Once completed, on February 27, 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.

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.”