Felixstowe Branch Capacity Enhancement Project Overview Suffolk Rail Conference October 2016
/ Why improve the Felixstowe Branch Line?
Felixstowe Port is the largest container port in the UK, the branch line is a key artery that allows these goods to travel around the country.
Every additional train takes circa 60 lorries from the A14
Enhanced reliability and robustness
76% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to road freight per tonne
/ Further Context
Capacity and Performance Issues
High demand for additional traffic
Wider Felixstowe to Nuneaton concept
Funded by the
Strategic Freight Network
/ What has changed since 2008…
Project to be delivered by Network Rail
Smaller length of double track
Additional level crossing alterations
Including a new bridleway bridge
Diversion of rights of way
Additional land and consents and required
/ Brief History (how we got to where we are)
The original Network Rail proposal of three loops (doubling and Loop at Westerfield Jn, Orwell Loop, Trimley Loop) was found to deliver the 48 ftpd required.
FEL Line joining the ESK Line at Westerfield Junction (facing Westerfield Station) Estimated at £98.63m (GRIP3)
Reduced scope options explored and capacity analysis undertaken.
Showing Proposed double tracking over Keepers Lane Crossing
/ Reduced Scope Option
45ftpd on branch
Greater Operational Flexibility
Compliant Timetable
Improved Safety
/ Programme
2016 2017 2018 2019
Design GRIP 3 GRIP 4 GRIP 5
Surveys
HPUK TWAO
Level Crossing TWAO
Mobilisation
Construction
Entry into Service
/ Project milestones
Milestone Forecast
GRIP 3 (option selection) design Complete November 2016
AFC Estimate Complete April 2017
GRIP 4 (single option selection) Complete August 2017
GRIP 5 (detailed design) Complete March 18
GRIP 6 (Construction, commissioning) March 19 Complete GRIP 7 (hand back) Complete November 19
/ Your chance to engage
We will be holding a public information event on Thursday 3rd November at Trimley Sports and Social Club, High Road, Trimley St Martin, Felixstowe IP11 0RJ
Private briefing for stakeholders with the project team from 1300
Open to the public for 1400 – 1900
You will be able to:
► See detailed information on our plans
► Provide feedback on our plans.
/ The help the project needs…
You’re continued engagement, views and local intelligence
Formal support for the proposals and scheme
Practical solutions to issues
/ Thank you for listening
Please feel free to ask any questions…
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