NETWORK Rail has started work on a £3million project to improve accessibility for passengers at Northallerton station.

A lift will be installed on both platforms to provide step-free access for passengers.

The main part of the project to install the lift shafts will start in June and the work is expected to be completed in March 2022.

The work will not impact on train services and it is taking place behind hoardings to keep disruption for people using the station to a minimum.

Any work which cannot be carried out behind the hoardings will be done overnight and both platforms will remain open throughout the project.

Paul Rutter, route director for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “We are committed to improving access for passengers and this vital work will make it much easier for people to move around Northallerton station.

“Since receiving the Access for All funding, we’ve worked with local stakeholders and accessibility groups to find the best option for passengers, whilst working to minimise disruption as much as possible throughout the project.”

Network Rail, TransPennine Express and the Department for Transport are working together on the project with funding made available from the Department for Transport.