PLANS for a new rail operating and training centre, which could bring about 475 jobs in York, will go on show to the public on Tuesday.

The York Rail Operating Centre, planned by Network Rail for a 7,300 square metre site between York Station and Holgate Bridge, is one of 14 such centres proposed across Britain.

Network Rail intends that the site will eventually control all rail operations on the east coast line from King’s Cross to the Scottish Borders.

The plans also include a 6,500 square-metre workforce development centre, which would replace existing centres elsewhere and provide core maintenance training and operations and higher technical training for staff.

Phil Verster, route managing director for the London North Eastern route, said: “These plans mark an exciting development for the railway and will help us to maintain York’s position as a proud rail city. The facilities are needed to help us to deliver a modern, efficient railway. They will allow us to retain jobs in the city as well as bringing future employment benefits which are vital for economic growth and prosperity.

“We also hope that the location of the facilities, on the edge of the York Central development site, could act as a catalyst for further investment in the area.”

Representatives from Network Rail, the architects and contractors will discuss the proposals with rail passengers and residents at the main ticket hall at York Railway Station on Tuesday, and St Paul’s Church, Holgate, on Wednesday, both from 11am to 7pm.