Network Rail has awarded a new contract to lay 1km of track between Felixstowe and Nuneaton, linking a branch line with the UK network and opening up a new corridor for intermodal freight.
The Rail Freight Group (RFG) welcomed the £53m design and construction deal, which went to Jacobs Engineering, and has a completion date set for 2014.
The new line will start just north of Ipswich goods yard and will improve freight services to the Midlands, North West, Yorkshire and onward to Scotland.
The new deal also includes work to link up two loops around Ely junction in Cambridgeshire to ease congestion.
Currently all freight trains have to travel through London and up the West Coast main line to reach the rest of the UK.
Maggie Simpson, policy manager for the RFG, said: “Investment in a second route from Felixstowe is vital for accomodating future growth from the port and adding resiliance for current services. We welcome news that NR has let the contracts for this important project.”
