Media centre

Thursday 21 May 2020

Embankment works carried out near Manningtree on the London to Norwich main line to prevent delays

Region & Route:

Eastern: Anglia

Works have been completed on the Norwich and London mainline near Manningtree to reinforce the embankment and protect the tracks by preventing vegetation and debris falling onto the line. This will help keep the line clear and trains running safely for those who need to travel by train.

Over time, the embankment has eroded and became unstable, which posed a risk to passing trains. Trees and debris could have fallen onto the tracks below, causing damage to the overhead wires and trains, which is a safety risk and ultimately leads to delays and cancellations. Network Rail’s contractors, Taziker, installed netting across the embankment which will prevent this from happening and keep services running safely.

Vegetation and drainage works also took place and new fencing was installed to help keep the embankment safe from future erosion.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: “Our teams are busy carrying out crucial works to keep the rail network running safely and reliably. The vital work on this key line into London will reduce delays and cancellations of services for those who need to travel now and improve the reliability of the network for when more passengers return in the future.”

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia’s managing director, said: “This work will improve punctuality for services along the line into London. This is great news for those who are currently making essential journeys and for those who will travel in the future.

“Government advice is still to only travel if it’s absolutely necessary. Anyone who does need to make an essential journey should follow government advice and use a face covering.

“We would like to thank customers for their patience, and both Network Rail and Greater Anglia staff for their continued hard work and dedication in keeping the railway running.”

Engineers also took the opportunity to thank frontline NHS workers with a banner which was displayed during the works.