GB Railfreight Managing Director John Smith responds to halting of Ely to Soham capacity enhancement scheme

In response to Network Rail's decision to halt the Ely to Soham capacity enhancement scheme on costs grounds, GB Railfreight Managing Director John Smith has issued the following statement: 

“While Network Rail’s decision to put the Ely to Soham scheme on hold is disappointing, what is now required is a clear understanding of what F2N looks like when it is completed. This includes recognising the capacity it can offer and the individual investments needed to deliver such capacity, including that at Soham. These can then be planned and funded through CP6. 

“With regards to CP5, double tracking of the Felixstowe branch line remains the best value for money of all schemes on the route and it’s vital that the Government completes the project in this Control Period. Double tracking will also ensure that benefits from other investments by Network Rail, such as the Nuneaton Chord and the Bacon Factory Curve, are fully exploited.”