Motorists and residents in the Selby and Knottingley areas are being made aware of a series of road closures and diversions, from mid to late May, to allow for essential improvement work to signals and level crossings.

The work is a major project to re-signal the railway in the Sudforth Lane and Hensall areas, including closing the signal boxes at each, and moving control of the signals to the Ferrybridge signalling control centre. This will improve the reliability of the signal equipment and reduce the chances of faults on the line, and in turn, passenger delays.

Many of the closures are taking place over the late May bank holiday, to reduce the risk of disruption as much as possible for road users, but some closures are more extensive.

The improvement work also includes renewing five level crossings across the area. At two of these - High Eggborough and Heck Lane – this will see the manned gate boxes being removed.

All of the level crossings being renewed will be ‘MCB-CCTV type’ – meaning they have manually controlled barriers and closed circuit television which can be seen by the signallers. This means they can see when people want to use the crossing, and operate the barriers from the Ferrybridge signalling centre.

Mark Tarry, area director, said: “We absolutely recognise these closures will affect many people in the Selby and Knottingley areas. We apologise in advance for any disruption or inconvenience caused.

“However, maintaining and upgrading the railway is essential to keep trains reliable and safe for passengers. The re-signalling work will have huge benefits for train operators and passengers, as it means there’s less chance of delays on the line.

“The work to upgrade the level crossings is part of our ongoing commitment to either close or make crossings safer across the entire country.

“We hope local residents understand this work is vital, and thank them in advance for their understanding and patience.”

The road closures and diversions were planned and agreed with the local authorities – North Yorkshire county, Wakefield and Goole councils – who have already given essential road users, such as emergency services, bus routes and NHS services, advance warning of the diversions that will be in place.