Record Passenger Numbers
Over the past five years 15% more people are using East Suffolk Lines rail services with the lines recording the highest ever number of passengers.
More than 40,000 additional passenger journeys were made in 2017 on the two lines which run from Ipswich to Lowestoft and Felixstowe – bringing the annual total to a new high of over 942,000 passenger journeys.
Greater Anglia’s Area Customer Service Manager, Neil Grabham, said, “We’ve been making improvements to stations and trains and offering frequent services and great value fares, and this along with the dedication and focus of the East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership, is helping our local rail lines to thrive, connecting people and communities across the county.”
Recent improvements have included a new waiting shelter and heritage station signage at Beccles, a new shelter at Trimley, new LED platform lighting at several East Suffolk Lines stations, new signage and student artwork at Felixstowe, a new platform garden at Melton, the start of a regeneration scheme at Lowestoft, restoration of Wickham Market station and new initiatives creating better links with local bus services.
Neil Grabham, added, “By working together with partners who share an interest in the success of the East Suffolk lines, we are committed to making these routes even more successful and an even more valuable asset to communities in Suffolk, supporting tourism and the local economy.” “There is even better to come for the lines from 2019, when all our trains will be replaced with brand new ones, creating more seats, a more comfortable journey and even more frequent services.”
Martin Halliday, Community Rail Officer said, “The East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership are thrilled that passenger journeys continue to increase and proud to partner with Greater Anglia to extol the delights to be found by rail in Suffolk. There is so much for people to explore as the lines from Ipswich link to areas of outstanding natural beauty, industrial and maritime heritage, traditional seaside resorts and family attractions.”