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Wednesday 16 Feb 2022

Rail improvement works set to boost reliability between Maryland and Forest Gate

Region & Route:

Eastern: Anglia

Network Rail is set to start upgrade works between Maryland and Forest Gate to increase reliability for Greater Anglia and TfL Rail passengers on the line into and out of Liverpool Street.

Taking place during February and March, the work will involve installing more effective drainage and replacing worn-out track.

The drainage improvements are being undertaken to help solve issues with flooding that have previously caused delays to passengers and freight. Teams will be digging down below the level of the tracks to install 360 metres of pipes. This brand new infrastructure is designed to carry rainwater away from the tracks quickly and effectively so that trains can keep running whatever the weather.

At the same time, and on the same part of the line, Network Rail is replacing old track. This will include both the rails themselves and the sleepers that support the rails.

Track works like these are essential to prevent issues that cause delays. Just like road surfaces, track wears out from constant use, even more so on busy main lines. The track is regularly inspected and maintained to keep it in good working order, but eventually a full replacement is required.

Due to the work between Maryland and Forest Gate and other essential engineering works on the line, Greater Anglia and TfL Rail will operate rail replacement buses on the following weekend dates:

• Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 February
• Sunday 27 February
• Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March
• Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March
• Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March

Customers are advised to check before they travel by going to nationalrail.co.uk, greateranglia.co.uk or tfl.gov.uk

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: “We are always working to drive down delays for our passengers and freight partners. In this case we are improving drainage in an area which has historically been prone to flood-related delays, reducing the possibility of problems in future. The upgraded drainage will also help to extend the life of the new track we are installing as part of the work.

“All in all, we are boosting reliability along one of the busiest stretches of line on Anglia.”

Jamie Burles, Managing Director, Greater Anglia, said: “Network Rail’s track renewals and drainage improvements on this critical part of the railway will help to keep our trains running on time.

“We’ll be operating a rail replacement bus service while the work takes place, so customers will be able to complete their journeys. Customers should check before they travel and allow more time for their journeys. We’d like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding.”

E-scooters, e-bikes or full-size bikes cannot be transported on the rail replacement buses.