Rail Connectivity Cambridge and Norwich 2024-02-08
2024-02-08
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The issue of increasing rail connectivity is being raised to improve travel efficiency between two major cities, with a focus on the Ely junction capacity enhancement scheme.
What steps he is taking to increase rail connectivity between Cambridge and Norwich. Greater Anglia operates an hourly direct service using new rolling stock but changing trains at Ely station is also possible. However, delays in getting the Ely junction fixed are holding back improvements.
Greater Anglia operates an hourly direct service using new rolling stock, with journey time of around 80 minutes. Changing trains at Ely station is also possible. The Ely area capacity enhancement scheme could create improved regional journeys but it involves further investment case development and delivery planning.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for fixing the Ely junction was not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Growing business costs in Cambridge are prompting calls for improved rail frequency and speed to promote the Norwich-Cambridge tech corridor.
Costs are rising for growing a business in Cambridge, yet Norwich is just down the road and down the railway. We need greater train frequency and faster trains to make the tech corridor a reality. The delays in getting the Ely junction fixed are holding back progress. How soon will that be sorted out?
The Ely junction capacity enhancement scheme is referenced in the Prime Minister's Network North plan and is at business case stage. Further investment case development and delivery planning are needed, but it will deliver for rail freight.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for sorting out delays was not provided.
Response accuracy