This weekend, journeys between Newcastle and York will be affected while Darlington’s new signalling system is brought into use.

Over three days (29th November – 1st December), services will be altered while the £140 million upgrade, which has seen two new platforms installed, is thoroughly tested.

Buses will be replacing CrossCountry trains between York and Newcastle, with LNER trains running once an hour between Newcastle and York on a diversionary route.

The diversionary route does mean that trains will not call at Durham and Darlington, so buses operate to connect people.

Lumo will only run between Newcastle and Edinburgh, and Northern will have buses in place between Eaglescliffe and Bishop Auckland and between Darlington and Newcastle via Durham and Chester-le-Street.

TransPennine Express will also have some replacement buses in place on some routes and trans running for other sections of the line.

Passengers should plan ahead and check whether trains are running at a different time, which can be done online.

“Commissioning the upgraded signalling system is a key step forward in delivering Darlington station’s transformation.

“It brings us nearer to opening the new platforms and improving the flow of trains at this vital part of the East Coast Main Line. We appreciate the patience of passengers and neighbours while we carry out this essential work.”

Luke Espin, Network Rail senior sponsor