A travel warning has been issued to rail passengers over the festive season.
Travellers using the West Coast Main Line over the Christmas period are being urged to plan ahead as Network Rail carries out a 22-day programme of major engineering works between December 24 and January 15.
The improvements will affect sections of the line between London and Cumbria, part of a £400 million investment aimed at improving reliability and performance.
Christian Irwin OBE, Network Rail’s capital delivery director for the North West and Central region, said: "This critical work we are delivering over the festive period is a key part of our ongoing major investment plan for the West Coast Main Line, one of the UK's busiest rail routes.
"These projects will enhance the experience for passengers and freight, improve reliability and performance across the railway line, and ensure it remains fit for purpose for decades to come."
The works include a £60 million replacement of a bridge over the M6 near Penrith, a £26 million upgrade at Hanslope Junction near Milton Keynes, signalling upgrades north of Carlisle costing £61 million, and a £6 million project to replace signalling gantries at Preston station.
Additional improvements will be carried out along the full 309-mile route, including renewals of overhead lines, track, and station platforms.
To minimise disruption, Network Rail is working closely with train operators to keep passengers on trains for as much of their journey as possible.
For the first time in a decade, the Settle to Carlisle line will be used as a diversionary route for long-distance services.
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Where rail travel is not possible, replacement bus services will be provided.
Mr Irwin said: "We know that this work will cause some disruption for those travelling during the festive season so please plan your journeys as early as possible by visiting National Rail Enquiries."
Passengers are advised to check the latest travel updates on www.nationalrail.co.uk and consult train operating companies for specific service information before starting their journey.
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