Track repairs affect train services

Rail passengers are being warned to expect delays as Network Rail carries out essential track works in the Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire areas during weekends in May and June.

Engineers say that as track gets worn from constant use by trains some sections need to be replaced.

On the Great Eastern Main Line between Norwich and Ipswich the work will include:

• Renewal of nearly half a mile of track just north of Trowse swing bridge near Norwich

• Renewal of one mile of rail at Tharston in South Norfolk

• Renewal of track, sleepers and ballast at Wassicks level crossing near Stowmarket

The work will take place over the following weekends:

• Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 May

• Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May

• Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 June

• Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 June

• Sunday 27 June

Work will also take place to replace timbers which hold the track in place on the line between Ely and Norwich and at Manea on the line between Ely and Peterborough. This will take place on the following weekends:

• Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May

• Sunday 30 May

• Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 June

• Sunday 20 June

On Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May resignalling work will also take place on the Wherry Lines between Norwich, Lowestoft and Yarmouth and maintenance work will take place at the Oulton Broad swing bridge.

Passengers are advised to check before they travel and follow all the latest advice regarding Covid-19.

Greater Anglia, which operates train services on the line, says it will be running a replacement bus service while the work takes place. It's advising passengers to allow more time for their journey and to check before they travel.