Across two weekends in November, Network Rail teams will carry out the next phase of a major programme to replace four-decade-old signalling equipment on the Norwich approach to the Great Eastern main line. The ageing components, which play a crucial role in tracking train positions and regulating train movements, are being swapped for modern digital systems designed to boost reliability and support future signalling enhancements.

Alongside the signalling overhaul, engineers will make full use of the planned closures to complete other key maintenance tasks. On the stretch between Diss and Norwich, specialists will work on overhead line infrastructure, while near Stowmarket, stoneblowing machines will treat sections of track to improve ride quality and keep services running smoothly.

These works will take place on 15–16 November and 29–30 November, with buses replacing trains throughout. In addition, further upgrades will be undertaken on Sunday 23 November, covering the London end of the line and the Southend and Southminster routes. One team will focus on Forest Gate, replacing a defective track component used for switching trains between lines. A temporary 50mph speed limit is currently in place to maintain safety, with engineers warning that without repairs, slower running or sudden line closures could become necessary. Crews will also be on site in the same area to mend part of a steel bridge structure.

Simon Milburn, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said: “We’ll be making the most of our planned engineering access, carrying out a range of essential works to keep services running on time into the future. We’re really sorry for the disruption while trains can’t run, but we need to get these jobs done.”

Martin Beable, managing director for Greater Anglia, said: "This project will help to modernise the railway and maintain punctuality and reliability. We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while Network Rail carry out this work."

Service changes will be in place as follows:

Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November

Buses will replace trains between Norwich and Ipswich. Trains will continue to operate between Ipswich and London.

Sunday 23 November

Buses replace trains between Ingatestone and Newbury Park (TfL Central Line station). Before 10.30am, trains operate between Norwich / Ipswich / Clacton-on-Sea and Ingatestone. After 10.30am, trains operate between Norwich / Ipswich / Clacton-on-Sea and Shenfield (via Ingatestone connecting to rail replacement buses).

Buses replace trains between Southend Victoria and Newbury Park (TfL Central Line station), as well as been Southminster and Wickford.

On the Elizabeth line, there is no service between Whitechapel and Shenfield, with rail replacement buses running between Stratford – Romford (C service) and Shenfield – Newbury Park (D service).

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November

Buses replace trains between Norwich and Ipswich as well as between Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds. Trains will continue to operate between Ipswich – London, between Bury St Edmunds – Cambridge, and between Bury St Edmunds – Peterborough.

Image: Network Rail