15.02.19
Scheme to double train capacity on West Norfolk line awarded funding
The capacity on West Norfolk’s trains is set to double after funding for an extension of trains running between Lynn and Cambridge has been given government approval.
Political and business leaders have been calling for eight-coach trains on the Fen Line following complaints over major overcrowding on the rail line.
Now, government funding to double the length of trains running to and from Lynn has been approved and work is set to start later this year.
Officials said passengers would likely see regular eight-coach trains running from between Lynn and Cambridge instead of the current four late next year.
The local council, business partnerships and MP Liz Truss have been calling for the doubling of carriages and have welcomed the news.
A letter from Network Rail to Truss revealed that the project would include additional storage space at Lynn as well as platform extensions at the Littleport and Waterbeach stations, as reported by Lynn News.
The documents suggested that work would begin this autumn and be completed by the summer of next year – with the first eight-coach train expected in December 2020.
South West Norfolk MP Liz Truss said: “I am delighted that funding has now been agreed.
“This is extremely positive and will be welcomed by the many rail users who have become increasingly frustrated by the overcrowding on the Fen Line.
“More and more travellers are using this train route and I will continue to ensure delivery remains on time and Network Rail keeps to its timetable of works.”
Network Rail’s public relations manager for the Anglia region wrote: “Everyone at Network Rail appreciates the desire amongst residents, local representatives and our partners at Great Northern to see this scheme delivered.
“We know that existing four car peak trains on this line are overcrowded just now, and that extending trains would add much-needed capacity.”