TWO local rail lines are to benefit from cash injections by Railtrack over the next year.

The Airedale line and the Settle to Carlisle line have been included in Railtrack's massive £27 billion investment programme.

A spokesman from Railtrack North West said the Airedale line would have platform extensions and route works to cater for the new Class 333 trains.

The trains are similar to those used on the Gatwick Express which can accelerate faster and therefore reduce journey times. However they are longer and so routes and platforms need adapting. This work is due to start in 2000.

The Settle to Carlisle line is to have track upgraded in a major three year programme, starting this year, and there will also be a study into freight traffic beyond the current projections.

The line may experience an increase in freight due to the possible introductions of new services to Glasgow.

Pete Shaw, secretary of the Friends of Settle to Carlisle Line, said they welcomed the work, and the possibility of more freight traffic on the line. "The more traffic, the bigger the mixture, the better long term security for the future of the line," he said.

He also said that he hoped the track renewals would help get the temporary speed restrictions lifted that have been imposed on part of the line.

Railtrack has made a commitment to carry all forecast freight for at least the next five years and improve network reliability.

Announcing the plans, Railtrack chairman Sir Robert Horton said they would contribute greatly to the Government's environmental objectives and policies on sustainable development.

By shifting passenger and freight from road to rail, there could be substantial benefits in respect of lower vehicle emissions, congestion and safety.

* More than 7,500 passengers used the direct Skipton-Keighley-London service in its first six months.

The train runs to London Kings Cross each weekday morning, with a return service in the evening.

GNER says it has been encouraged by the number of passengers.

"We are very pleased with the service and the positive way in which it has been received by business and leisure travellers alike. We have got off to a good start, and fully expect passenger numbers to continue to grow during this first full year of operation," said GNER spokesman David Mallender.

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