01.03.12
Ely improvements to increase freight capcity
Improvements at Ely to increase freight capacity have now begun. Network Rail is building two 775m loops parallel to the existing track east of Ely station, to allow better regulation of trains through the junctions at Ely.
This work is part of Network Rail’s strategic freight network, a programme of investment to improve freight capacity acrossBritain’s railway. The loops complement other work on the cross-country route, including the completion of gauge clearance of the entire route in 2011, the ongoing construction of a flyover north ofNuneatonstation, and the Ipswich Chord which is currently seeking planning approval.
Freight trains carrying the larger containers increasingly used by global shipping companies will be able to travel more directly from the Port of Felixstowe to the West Midlands, north-west England and Scotland without having to travel through north London, once the works are complete.
Tim Cook, senior sponsor at Network Rail, said: “The work we’re doing at Ely, together with the other enhancements along the route, is a key part of our plans to take more freight off roads and onto rail.
“This project will help to take up to 750,000 lorry journeys off the road every year by 2030, reducing traffic congestion, improving road safety and reducing carbon emissions by around three-quarters.”
The loops should be complete by summer 2013.
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