Network Rail is advising motorists and rail passengers to allow more time for their journeys while it works on upgrading two level crossings in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, next month.

Its workers will be making the improvements to the crossing over five days in February. The two level crossings are at the neighbouring sites of Thorne Moorends and Stainforth Road.

The work includes renewing the level crossing decks, track and road surface. This will make using the level crossings smoother for both trains and road users.

Network Rail is spending £183,000 on the work.

It will start at Thorne Moorends, an automatic half-barriers crossing, working from 8pm on Monday 17 February until 9am on Wednesday 19 February. Workers will be using powered plant, generators, hand tools and machines, and surface-breaking tools.

Work will then begin at Stainforth Road at 8am on Wednesday 19 February and continue until 3pm on Friday 21 February.

While the work is taking place, vehicles will not be able to use the crossing, so signposted diversions will be in place.

Train operators Northern and TransPennine Express will run buses to replace rail services running between Doncaster and Goole/Scunthorpe.

The work on the level crossings forms one part of a programme of planned engineering work. The Doncaster-to-Scunthorpe line will closed for much of the week.

The work includes renewing switch and crossing equipment at Kirton Lane level crossing and installing troughs and cables as part of the Ferriby to Gilberdyke Project in East Yorkshire. This area is looking forward to a new station between Ferriby and Brough, with consultation having started last year.

Workers will also carry out drainage renewal in the Scunthorpe area, and will update signalling and telecommunications equipment along the line.

Network Rail is advising passengers to check all parts of their journey before setting off. They can do so via National Rail Enquiries.

“This essential work in Doncaster will improve journeys by both rail and road.

“Our colleagues will be working through the night to minimise disruption, but we would like to say sorry to anyone impacted while the project is completed.

“We thank people for their understanding as we work towards a smoother, more reliable railway.”

Matt Story, Network Rail works delivery supervisor