A LETTER OF THANKS AS "TUNNEL VISION" PROVES SUCCESSFUL

Tuesday 7 Sep 2004

A LETTER OF THANKS AS "TUNNEL VISION" PROVES SUCCESSFUL

Region & Route:: | Eastern: Anglia; | Eastern; | Southern

Dear Sir/Madam A letter of thanks as ‘tunnel vision’ proves successful I write to convey my sincere thanks to your readers, and all those affected by the recent closure of Ipswich tunnel, for their continued patience and support over the last eight weeks. The crucial project to lower the track in the tunnel for larger freight containers was quite a challenge in the given timescale. Unfortunately, some disruption to passengers was inevitable, but we asked them to bear with us and they did. I was delighted to reopen the line on Monday morning, watching the first trains through the tunnel from Ipswich station, safe in the knowledge that we had delivered what we promised. This challenge could not have been met without the backing of the local community. From the first consultations we undertook in November 2002, it was clear that the people of East Anglia supported the need for the project and welcomed the benefits it would bring, with a growth in rail freight and reduced traffic on the roads. Throughout the closure, we received encouraging letters from local residents and rail user groups, and passengers voiced their support through the local media. Many people played a part in this project, not least the many dedicated railway workers who worked day and night, and it is only right that they should share in its success. Once more, my thanks to everyone. Yours sincerely Mark Livock Network Rail Project Director Felixstowe to Nuneaton Freight Upgrade

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