Call for better infrastructure to complement new trains
CAMPAIGNERS expect new trains to be part of the new East Anglia franchise that was due to be announced as this issue RAIL went to press. But new trains alone are not enough, they say - infrastructure improvements are also needed.
Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North and joint-chairman of the Great Eastern Main Line Taskforce, said: “We’ve had a big campaign with huge ambition. We have demanded the highest standards possible. In the franchise soon to be announced we are expecting new trains - that’s a huge part of the campaign, but there is more to do. We need track improvements as well, so the work continues.”
The Taskforce submitted its ambitions to Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin, ahead of the new East Anglia rail franchise being announced.
In the letter, the Taskforce reiterated its desire for new rolling stock to be included in the franchise tender, for the delivery of journey time improvements, and for a comprehensive package of infrastructure improvements.
Campaigners want journey times of London to Chelmsford in 25 minutes, to Colchester in 40 minutes, to Ipswich in 60 minutes, and to Norwich in 90 minutes.
More than 20 business and sector leaders from Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex have signed the letter, which states: “We were delighted that you, the Chancellor and the Prime Minister have all explicitly endorsed the findings of our campaign and we are looking forward to delivery.”
The Taskforce’s report was published in November 2014 (RAIL 761, 762). It states that the economic case for investment would deliver £4.5 billion in economic benefits, £1.3bn of capital investment along the line, journey time savings of £9 million per year, and the creation of 48,000 jobs along the Great Eastern Main Line. It also stresses a return of £9.50 for every £1 invested.
“Our three-year campaign has consistently stated that for far too long, thousands of commuters, visitors and businesses in Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk have not had a service worthy of our region,” said Mark Pendlington, chairman of the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership and joint-chairman of the Taskforce.
“We have worked long and hard to ensure the new franchise provides the high-quality rail service that is crucial to delivering key economic benefits, including new jobs, homes and business growth right along the length of the line. Now is the time for the campaign to get the result it deserves.”
David Burch, director of policy at Essex Chambers of Commerce, added: “We are seeing a lot of new development in places like Chelmsford and Colchester, and the businesses investing in those areas tell us that a first class rail network is essential to businesses in Essex.”