Buses will replace train service through Cambridge and …
Network Rail has confirmed that a number of track upgrades will be taking place on lines travelling through Cambridge and Peterborough[1]. This will involve replacing nine sets of 40-year-old points on either side of Stowmarket Station.
The old wooden sleepers are being replaced with modern, concrete ones – with the rails and equipment allowing the points to move also being replaced. This will reduce the likelihood of faults that can cause delays and are expected to last for 50 years.
The works are due to take place over all the weekends in September and the first weekend in November (See full list below). During that time, buses will replace trains on the line.
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director, said: “This work is extremely important to help maintain the safe and reliable running of the railway – we would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while it is carried out.
“A rail replacement service will run while the work takes place and passengers are advised to check before they travel and allow more time for their journey.”
The work is said to be critical because the line is where many of the specialist trains, that blast fallen leaves off the tracks, are stored. Any faults with the points could prevent them from treating tracks, causing delays to passengers across the county.
Dates for weekend works:
- Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September
- Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September
- Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
- Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 September
- Saturday 30 September and Sunday 1 October
- Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 November
During these weekends, buses will replace trains between Ipswich and Norwich. Buses will also replace trains between Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds on the Ipswich – Cambridge/Peterborough line.
On Sunday, October 1 and Sunday, November 5 only, the train service is scheduled to resume after 7.15pm
More details on the works can be found here[3].
References
- ^ Peterborough (www.cambridge-news.co.uk)
- ^ Filming on Cambridge street will see road closed and parking suspended (www.cambridge-news.co.uk)
- ^ here (www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk)