During the Christmas period, Network Rail engineers relaid nearly two miles of track through the platforms at York station.

In a £6 million upgrade, between Christmas Eve, 24th December and Monday, 2nd January, 2.7 km (1.6 miles) of track was replaced along with nine sets of points and some vital signalling equipment.

To minimise delays caused by cold weather, specialist heaters on the track that play an important part in melting snow and ice at critical points on the lines were replaced by improved ones that allow trains to run reliably regardless of the weather conditions.

The net effect of these improvements will reduce delays and improve the track’s condition for many years to come.

Because of the strike action during the Christmas period, at first, there was concern that the work would not be able to go ahead. However, after reviewing the options, sufficient specially trained and fully qualified backup staff were able to step in to do the work and help deliver the improvements which will provide major benefits for passengers.

Further strike action is planned from today, Tuesday, 3rd until Saturday, 7th January, which will result in a much-reduced train service. Those trains that do run will start later and finish earlier than normal, therefore anyone intending to travel during this period should only travel if it is absolutely necessary and check the times of their first and last trains via National Rail Enquiries or their train operator’s website.

Paul Rutter, East Coast Route Director for Network Rail said: “I’m so pleased that we were able to push ahead with this work despite the strike action and do the right thing for passengers. Better equipment and new weather-ready tracks will all help to offer more reliable journeys through York.

“I’d like to thank passengers for their support and patience over the festive period and look forward to welcoming them back to the railway throughout 2023.”