Major Upgrade Project on London to Norwich Line Enters Second Phase

Image Courtesy of Network Rail

One of Network Rail’s fleet of ‘high output’ machines will begin the second phase of upgrading the line between Colchester and Shenfield, starting today.

Starting in January, the high output ballast cleaner, used for renewing the bed of stones beneath the metal rail, has been working between Norwich and Ipswich five nights a week. All stages have been completed on time, renewing more than 14 miles of railway.

Starting today the project will enter the second phase and the machine will move down the line carrying out vital work, resulting in a more reliable railway, reducing potential track problems and reducing the risk of disruption.

Railway from London to Norwich

Richard Schofield, Network Rail route managing director, said: Running a safe, reliable railway depends on the track being in good condition not just the metal rails, but the foundations on which they sit too.

This line is one of the busiest rail routes in the country and this upgrade is absolutely vital in our plans to deliver a more reliable service for tens of thousands of passengers. With this technology, we can renew the railway while trains are still running but there will be some changes to services, and we thank passengers in advance for their patience.

Jamie Burles, Managing Director, Abellio Greater Anglia said: We will continue to work closely with Network Rail in doing all we can to minimise disruption to journeys while these works are taking place and we are grateful to our customers for their cooperation and understanding. This improvement work is important in helping to provide a better and more reliable railway for rail passengers using the Great Eastern Main Line.”