York rail operating centre plans approved

Date: 28/5/2012

Plans have been approved to build a new rail operating centre and workforce development site near York station.

Network Rail claims the changes will have economic benefits for the Yorkshire city, as they will create employment opportunities and lead to growth.

When complete, the operating centre will control all rail operations along the east coast.

Around 500 jobs will be created in both the operating centre and the training site, while the changes should also encourage greater investment in the area.

"These operating and training facilities will allow us to deliver a modern, efficient railway while at the same time maintaining York's position as a proud rail city," said Network Rail's Route Managing Director for London North Eastern Phil Verster.

The operating centre is just one of 14 planned for the UK over the next 15 to 30 years.

Network Rail recently completed construction work at Blackfriars station in London, which means passengers can now benefit from an additional 700 train services every week.

Posted by Mary Treen