Darlington has a new, improved signalling system – but Network Rail is warning passengers that journeys between York and Newcastle will face disruption when the system is brought into use.

The installation of the new system forms part of a major upgrade to Darlington station, which is costing £140 million.

Network Rail has tested the new signalling system extensively and upgraded the power supply, with work being completed earlier this autumn.

The upgrade is an essential component of the introduction of two new platforms at Darlington, which will allow Network to better manage the flow of trains, thereby reducing delays and creating the capacity needed to increase train services in the future.

Darlington station’s upgrade is scheduled to be completed in the spring next year. It is being delivered by Network Rail, LNER, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Darlington Council, and is being funded mainly by the Department for Transport.

As well as the two new platforms, the upgrade will also see the installation of an accessible footbridge which will link the new Eastern Gateway concourse building, the multi-storey car park, cycle lanes and bike shelters.

While the signalling system is being commissioned, train services will be disrupted over three days, from Saturday 29 November to Monday 1 December.

CrossCountry will run rail replacement buses between York and Newcastle, which will call at Darlington and Durham.

LNER will operate one train per hour between York and Newcastle via a diversion route, which will mean that no LNER services will call at Darlington and Durham. Rail replacement coaches will run between York and Newcastle in order to connect passengers to Darlington and Durham.

Lumo will run an amended and reduced service between Newcastle and Edinburgh only. Northern will operate rail replacement buses between Eaglescliffe and Bishop Auckland and between Darlington and Newcastle via Durham and Chester-le-Street.

TransPennine Express will operate rail replacement buses between York and Newcastle, which will call at Darlington, Durham and Chester-le-Street.

On Sunday, 30 November, some onward services between York and Manchester will run to a slightly changed timetable while Transpennine Route Upgrade work affects the line.

“The commissioning of 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