Sizewell Branch Upgrades Set for 2025 – Walkers Urged to Stay Off the Tracks
As Network Rail begins preparatory work to upgrade the Sizewell Branch Line from January, the rail infrastructure company is asking walkers to stay clear of the tracks for their own safety.
The line runs between Saxmundham and Leiston and is set to get a major overhaul as part of the Sizewell C nuclear power station construction project. The work will enable freight trains to carry materials to the construction site.
Local communities will started to see increased levels of activity along the line, including surveyors, engineers and engineering trains delivering materials and equipment in preparation for upgrade work later in 2025.
The branch has not seen regular passenger service since it was withdrawn 1966, and with very few works trains and an occasional rail tour traversing the route, a small number of recreational users have been observed using the line as a walking route. Despite the infrequent use, the line remains part of the national rail network; local residents and recreational walkers are being urged to stay off the tracks.
Network Rail is working with the local community leaders to raise awareness of the upcoming works and the planned increase of the line.
Major Engineering Work
Later in 2025 work on the branch line will include:
- Renewal of 4.5 miles of track; jointed track will be replaced with continuously welded rail
- Installation of a new signalling system
- Upgrades to seven level crossing including new barriers, road traffic lights and monitoring systems
The enhancements and renewals being delivered by Network Rail and Sizewell will enable the transport of up to 60% of the construction materials required for the new twin power station by rail and sea; this will help to reduce the power plant’s construction carbon footprint and the number of HGVs using local roads.
Katherine Scott, sponsor for Network Rail Anglia said: ‘It really is very important that people stay off the tracks for their own safety. It is not only dangerous, it is illegal.
‘While the branch line has not seen much activity over recent years, from January 2025, rail engineers and construction workers will be on site with engineering trains moving up and down the line.
‘With help from the Sizewell project and local community representatives, we encourage people to heed the advice and stay safe by sticking to local walking routes and footpaths.’
Stephen Keighley, Sizewell C Project Manager, said: “The railways are central to the construction of Sizewell C. To limit the amount of construction traffic on the roads, we’ll be bringing in at least 60% of construction materials by rail or sea. In order to do that, we’re making significant improvements to local railway infrastructure, from track replacements to level crossing and signalling upgrades.
“January will see a step up in our work as we look to upgrade the Sizewell Branch Line and we’ll be working very closely with Network to raise awareness of the work and ensure people stay off the tracks for their own safety.”