More Improvements for the East Suffolk Line

12 February, 2026

Passengers travelling on the East Suffolk line in March are advised to plan ahead as essential engineering work will be taking place on three successive weekends to deliver a smoother, more reliable journey for passengers.

As part of a wider plan of investment along the line, old jointed rail (which makes the clickety-clack sound) near Saxmundham will be replaced with continuously welded rail. This will helping reduce noise from passing trains whilst improving passenger comfort and reducing wear and tear on train wheels.

Some of the track is close to 100 years old; replacing it will help maintain the safe and reliable operation of train services and future freight services for the construction of the Sizewell C nuclear power station.

In addition to the track renewal works, Network Rail will be carrying out the following improvements:

  • Final strengthening and repairs to the bridges over the River Deben and River Alde, helping maintain the long-term resilience of the railway
  • Installing and activating new signalling equipment at multiple locations on the East Suffolk Line to help trains run safely and on schedule
  • Repairing the road surface near Brick Lane Level Crossing to make it safer and easier for vehicles to use
  • Upgrading drainage near the Broomheath area to reduce flooding and keep the railway operational in wet weather
  • Greater Anglia will also use the time when trains aren’t running to continue to refurbish the footbridge at Woodbridge station for a safer and more accessible experience for passengers.

Buses Replace Trains Ipswich to Halesworth

To allow engineers safe access to the track, train services will be replaced by buses between Ipswich and Halesworth on the following weekends:

  • Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March
  • Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 March
  • Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March

Trains will continue to operate between Halesworth and Lowestoft on these weekends. There will also be associated temporary level crossing closures with road diversion routes in place for road users at times. Details of these level crossing closures will be communicated to local communities once agreed with the local highways authority.

Mark Walker, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said:
“We’re carrying out vital upgrades along the East Suffolk Line to make travel safer and smoother for everyone. From station maintenance and bridge repairs to signalling improvements and better drainage, this work strengthens the railway for years to come. We thank passengers and local communities for their understanding while these improvements are underway.”

Martin Beable, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, said:
“We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while Network Rail carry out this work. These projects will help to modernise the railway and ensure it is fit for the future. The works will also help to maintain our high standards of punctuality and reliability.”