Major bridge upgrades are to start on the Settle and Carlisle line this weekend to make it more reliable for passengers.

The £2m investment, part of the Great North Rail Project, will see two bridges in Craven given an overhaul.

The two bridges will be demolished before a new bridge is lifted into position by a crane.

The work means the line from Skipton to Kirkby Stephen will be closed between Saturday 24 and Wednesday 28 October.

A rail replacement bus service will operate instead by operator Northern.

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.”

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