Harrogate resignalling complete

Resignalling is complete on the Harrogate line, leading to improved performance and capacity. A turnback facility is also being built at Horsforth to facilitate future increases in rail services.

The project saw £16m investment for resignalling between Kirkstall Viaduct andHarrogate. The turnback facility involves the installation of new track, sleepers and ballast, as well as earth and drainage works on the land.

Warrick Dent, area manager for Network Rail, said: “TheHarrogateline is a real success story and passenger demand is expected to continue to grow. This substantial investment is great news for rail passengers as the new equipment will not only be more reliable but will give provision for future increases in line speed and the possibility for increased services.

“This is just one of many projects we are completing to improve services for passengers in the area. Others include resignalling between South Kirby and Wakefield; and Huddersfield and Bradford; a new southern entrance at Leeds station; a turnback at Micklefield and, in partnerships with local partners, new stations at Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge.”

Signalling will be transferred from Horsforth and Rigton signal boxes into Harrogate, increasing efficiencies as these boxes close.

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