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Wednesday 21 Oct 2020

North Yorkshire bridge renewals mean changes for passengers from this weekend

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Multi-million pound bridge upgrades are taking place on the Settle to Carlisle line in North Yorkshire from this weekend to make the railway more reliable for passengers and freight.

A £2m Great North Rail Project investment will see the overhaul of two bridges in Craven.

Both old bridges will be demolished with two modern structures lifted into position by crane.

The essential work means the railway between Skipton and Kirkby Stephen will need to be closed between Saturday 24 and Wednesday 28 October.

During this time train operator Northern will run a replacement bus service.

Passengers are advised to check before they travel at www.nationalrail.co.uk

Nathaly Oshodin, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “I’d urge passengers planning to travel between Saturday 24 and Wednesday 28 October to think ahead so they know what to expect from their journey while the railway must be closed for this essential bridge work.

“We thank local people and passengers for their patience while we carry out this £2m renewal as part of the Great North Rail Project, securing the future of the railway for passengers for decades to come.”

Steve Hopkinson, regional director at Northern, said: “The Settle and Carlisle Line is one the most picturesque across the whole rail network and the work being carried out by Network Rail will ensure future generations can continue to experience this beautiful part of the north of England.

“We are working closely with Network Rail to keep disruption to a minimum and will provide a good rail replacement service to make sure our customers can still get where they need to be.”

John Moorhouse, chairman of the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company, said: "Whilst any temporary line closure causes inconvenience, especially during school half term holidays, such work is necessary to secure the future of this iconic railway line and benefit the many people who use it for a variety of purposes."

The two bridges in Stainforth will be replaced as part of the Great North Rail Project - a rail industry effort to deliver better stations, track and trains across the North.