Vital rail upgrade works on the Great Eastern main line between Ipswich and London start this month, with work taking place at various points on the line at weekends starting from the 17 October to 22 November.
The work includes:
- The replacement of 4 switches and crossings units, which allow trains to switch from one track to another at Colchester
- Replacement of worn track at Manningtree
- At Stratford and Maryland, works will take place to upgrade the overhead line electrification with a new auto tension system that adapts to temperature changes
- Upgrades to the power systems between London and Shenfield as part of the preparation for the start of Elizabeth line services.
The work will result in fewer delays and cancellations on the busy main line, which is a vital part of Anglia’s rail network. Delays on this line have a knock-on effect on branch lines, so passengers across the region will benefit from the upgrades.
Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, Ellie Burrows, said: “The main line to London is a critical part of the rail network in the Anglia region. We’re committed to improving reliability for our passengers and these upgrades are vital to making that happen, not just between Norwich and London but also for the connecting branch lines.”
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia manging director, said: “These works will help to improve punctuality and performance along this vital part of the line.
“We will be running a rail replacement bus service while the work takes place. We would like to reassure customers that we constantly monitor passenger numbers to ensure people can socially distance on buses as well as trains.” The upgrade of the overhead line equipment between Stratford and Maryland will continue over Christmas 2020 and weekends in January and February, completing by Easter 2021
