Improvements to the Great Eastern Main Line railway from London to Norwich could generate £3.7 billion in benefits to businesses and commuters in the East of England, according to a report commissioned by EEDA. The report envisages improved travel times, greater capacity, new trains for longer distance services, improvements to rural stations, longer franchises and better facilities such as wi-fi access.
Mike Salter, head of transport planning at EEDA said: “This is a long-term vision for the line and it requires long term commitment and investment from partners in the East of England and the government. It is absolutely essential that if we want to help our businesses become even more competitive we have to invest in the transport schemes that will deliver the best returns to the economy.“
Andrew Chivers, managing director, National Express East Anglia said: "In the current economic climate, the Great Eastern Main Line project will have to compete in an even more challenging funding environment, so this study is particularly helpful. We will continue to work together with regional partners to help support further improvements for this key rail and regional artery.”