I WAS interested to read about Network Rail’s plans to add a fourth track at Holgate Junction (The Press, July 31).

There were four tracks historically, until the track layout was rationalised by British Rail, and new computer-based signalling installed, as a prelude to East Coast line electrification.

I was involved with the electrification and re-signalling work, although not at York. However, I was aware of the ambitions for York. At the time, British Rail had been reorganised for what proved to be the last time before privatisation. BR was divided into various internal business sectors and each sector was responsible for funding the upkeep of track and signalling.

The initial plans for York retained four tracks at Holgate Junction, plus a through line between the two main platforms, with crossovers to the platform tracks.

All this would have given much more flexibility. But none of the new business “sectors” would sponsor anything beyond the absolute minimum. So the track layout was pared below the bone. A clear case of commercial pressure overriding common sense.

I am pleased to learn common sense has since prevailed. But stop/go investment since privatisation has brought a lack of confidence to the industry and training investment has been sacrificed.

Paul Hepworth, Windmill Rise, York.