Starting in January 2025, Network Rail will begin a major renewal of the Sizewell branch line between Saxmundham and Leiston in Suffolk in connection with the construction of Sizewell C power station.

Daily passenger services along the branch ceased in 1966, and over recent years there have been very few rail movements along the line, although a rail tour is set to traverse the branch in January 2025.

Last April, Network Rail carried out renewal work on the East Suffolk line in connection with making it suitable for transporting materials to Sizewell C.

With the line set to be used for transporting freight and materials during the construction of the new power station, those recreational users who have been using the line as a walking route are being warned to stay off the tracks for their own safety.

Once Network Rail starts its work in January 2025, there will be increased levels of activity along the line, including by surveyors and engineers.

There will also be engineering trains delivering materials and equipment in readiness for the upgrade work later next year.

Network Rail is working with local community leaders to raise awareness about the impending work that will take place on the line and its increased use in connection with the construction of Sizewell C powers station.

The major engineering work along the line is planned for later in 2025, and will include:

• Renewal of 4½ miles of track.
• Replacing jointed track with continuously welded rail.
• Installing a new signalling system
• Upgrading seven level crossings with new barriers, road traffic lights and monitoring systems.

Upgrading the branch line will enable up to 60% of the construction materials required for the new power station to be delivered by rail.

Some material will also be transported by rail and sea, leading to an overall reduction in the carbon footprint and the number of HGVs on local roads.

A freight management strategy for Sizewell C is to transport up to 60% of freight and materials associated with its construction by rail and sea. Once Sizewell C is fully operational, it will supply 6 million homes with low-carbon electricity.

“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.’”

Katherine Scott, sponsor for Network Rail Anglia