A £60.4 million scheme to increase freight services to and from Felixstowe has been given the green light by the Secretary of State for Transport.
A second track will be installed between Trimley station and Grimston Lane foot crossing on the Felixstowe branch line. This will allow up to 47 freight trains to run per day, 14 more than can currently run. Each train can carry the equivalent of 60 freight lorry loads, meaning fewer vehicles on busy roads such as the A14.
The project which will enable more freight to be transported by rail, supporting the growth of the UK economy.
Network Rail’s route managing director for Anglia, said: ‘We’re improving the Felixstowe branch line to provide a step change for rail freight in Suffolk and beyond as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan. We’re supporting the growth of the UK economy by enabling more freight to be transported on the railway and reducing the number of freight lorries on the road. The work will also create a safer and more reliable railway for passengers travelling between Ipswich and Felixstowe.’