Network Rail is set to help deliver a more modern, reliable railway for passengers in East Yorkshire, as it carries out major work to upgrade the signalling system at Bridlington.
From October 22, 2021, signallers at Bridlington South signal box will pull the mechanical levers for the last time, before the 65-lever frame is upgraded with a modern control panel.
Over nine days, the older mechanical signalling system will be replaced by a new modern colour light one.
The signalling equipment at Bridlington South has been in place for over 60 years and is now considered outdated and in need of being replaced to improve reliability and reduce disruption on the railway,
While the work is taking place, Network Rail teams will also upgrade around 1.2km of track.
Carrying out both pieces of work simultaneously during the nine day period reduces disruption for passengers and means they can benefit from smoother, more reliable journeys much quicker.
Ensuring the safety of those working on the track, no trains will run to or from Bridlington during the period of the works, with bus replacement services ensuring passengers can still keep moving during this time.
Chris Gee, Operations Director for Network Rail’s North and East route, said: “Many people, including myself, will be sorry to see this iconic equipment taken out of action but it is necessary to modernise the railway, boost reliability and reduce delays for passengers travelling to and from Bridlington and across East Yorkshire.
“We’ve planned this work carefully so that we can also improve the track whist the line is closed – preventing disruption over multiple weekends for passengers. These improvements can only be completed safely when no trains are running in the area. Buses will connect passengers and we would like to thank people for their patience.”
Tony Baxter, Regional Director at Northern, added: “The work being carried out by Network Rail is key to providing our customers with future-proofed journeys to and from Bridlington.
“We’ll be working closely with colleagues across the rail industry to keep disruption to a minimum and to ensure our customers can still get where they need to be while the work takes place.
“I’d like to thank customers in advance for their patience and understanding and ask anyone thinking of travelling to or from Bridlington to plan journeys carefully and additional time for travel.”
