Senior figures in the East of England’s rail industry came together in Colchester to chart the future of the region’s network.
Transport East’s Future of Rail event on November 20 at Colchester town hall, supported by Greater Anglia, c2c and the Rail Freight Group, brought together industry directors, local politicians and transport partners from across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex as well as representatives from national bodies.
The event focused collaboration and how to connect with the incoming mayors of Norfolk and Suffolk and Greater Essex.
Delegates explored what the return to public ownership of rail means for the East, discussed how local leadership can benefit from the changes and aired their priorities for a future rail network. Those included better integration with other transport modes, communities and wider service enhancements.
Will Quince, chair of Transport East, said: “The East has a clear, united voice on the importance of rail, and this event demonstrated the depth of expertise and ambition within our partnership. By working together, we can shape a network that truly serves our growing communities and economy.
“The insight we’ve gathered will be shared with the incoming mayors for Norfolk and Suffolk, and Greater Essex – so they are ready, from day one, to champion investment and improvements that deliver for the East.”
Pam Cox, MP for Colchester and co-chair of the East of England All-Party Parliamentary Group, said: “Rail has been a key part of Colchester’s story for nearly two centuries, with our strong rail links to London, Suffolk and Norfolk supporting local prosperity and have helped to make Colchester a vibrant and well-connected place to live, work and visit.
“With Greater Anglia and c2c now in public ownership they have a bright future ahead as part of Great British Railways.
“As one of the fastest-growing regions in the UK, the East is central to our nation’s future success – driving innovation, clean energy, and trade. Continued investment in our rail network is essential to grow these ambitions, support new homes and communities, and strengthen our links to ports, airports and key employment hubs.
“By working together across the region, we can make sure rail continues to be a driver of opportunity and growth for future generations.”
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