24.01.14
Passenger boost for Greater Anglia
The East Suffolk Line had a record number of passengers last year, following improvements to the track and signalling.
In 2013, there were over 653,000 journeys on the Ipswich to Lowestoft line; an increase of 11.5% on the previous year.
Abellio Greater Anglia introduced a new hourly service in December 2012 after installing a passing loop at Beccles. The £4m scheme brought a disused platform at the station back into use.
Track and signalling works were also carried out as part of a wider £21m project to re-signal the East Suffolk Line.
Jonathan Denby, head of corporate affairs, said: “We're pleased to see that the new hourly service along the whole East Suffolk route has already been a great success. One year on and passenger numbers are up 11.5% year on year and over 60% on 2009/2010 – the last full year before the hourly service was introduced on the southern half of the route (Saxmundham – Ipswich).
“By working together with partners who share an interest in the success of the East Suffolk line, we are helping to create an exciting new phase in the history of the line with more services, better performance and better customer facilities. We're committed to making the Ipswich to Lowestoft route an even more successful route and an even more valuable asset to the communities it serves, supporting tourism and the local economy."
Local MP Therese Coffey said: “I am delighted that the figures show such an increase in passengers. It is clear that a regular timetable with hourly trains has benefited residents, commuters and tourists alike. The service has also improved links to Ipswich and London for Suffolk Coastal businesses, giving a boost to the whole area.”
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