Improving regional rail connectivity in the region is vital for our region and in particular at Haughley and Ely Junctions, which are close to reaching capacity. I was pleased to support a £1m commitment from Suffolk Public Sector Leaders towards Haughley but only greater investment in these two junctions will allow not only better passenger train reliability in the East West corridor but will also allow significant freight to come off the road network.
Long term maintenance to the East Suffolk Line will also be critical with the start of construction Sizewell C and the increase in freight usage.
HGV traffic across our region needs a more coordinated collaborative approach. Freight plays a vital role in our economy so working with businesses on having agreed routes is essential. Many villages and towns want to have a greater say in reducing movements in the centres and work together with road haulers to lessen impact when possible. We must avoid the worst case scenario of simply moving the problem from one community to another by not taking a big picture strategic approach.