Track renewal works on East Suffolk line to improve reliability

Worn out track is planned to be renewed on the East Suffolk line to improve reliability and provide passengers with an improved journey experience.

The work will replace three kilometres of track in the vicinity of Brampton station with almost 3,500 steel and 700 concrete sleepers being replaced as part of the works.

The level crossing on Station Road in Brampton will also receive an improved deck for road vehicles as well as additional works to install tactile paving, handrails, fencing and signage for pedestrians.

Three pedestrian foot crossings in the vicinity of Brampton will also receive new decks and associated upgrade works to improve the surface for those crossing the railway.

Platform resurfacing works are also planned at Brampton station at the same time.

This work is planned to begin on Saturday 24 October and last until early hours of Monday 2 November. Train services on the East Suffolk line will be suspended between Lowestoft and Saxmundham to allow engineers a safe working environment to complete the track renewal works.

The Station Road level crossing will also need to be closed from 11pm on Friday 23 October to 5am Monday 2 November. A diversion route will be in place for drivers. There will also be an overnight closure of the Station Road crossing from late on Thursday 8 October to early morning Friday 9 October.

Passenger are advised to check before travelling and allow extra time as a bus replacement service will be operating between Lowestoft and Saxmundham to allow passengers to complete their journeys.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia said: “We’re continuing our programme of essential track renewal works to maintain the track and replace worn out sections to improve reliability.

“Closing a line for over a week is always going to be inconvenient for those who wish travel, for which I apologise, but overall, It is less disruptive for passengers to close a line for 10 days rather than closing the railway over many weekends.”

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director, said: “We know engineering works are inconvenient for passengers, but this essential work will help improve punctuality and reliability for customers on the East Suffolk line.

“A rail replacement bus service will run between Lowestoft and Saxmundham to ensure customers are able to complete their journeys. We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while this work takes place.”

Photo credit: Network Rail

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