Investment to modernise the East Suffolk line will step up in May, with extensive renewals and maintenance to keep services running safely and reliably between Ipswich and Lowestoft.

The programme includes repairing and replacing ageing track and signalling, alongside upgrades to several level crossings. The work also supports Sizewell C's transport strategy to move most construction materials by rail and sea.

Engineering activity will take place for nine days from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May 2026. Planned tasks include: refurbishing track and points at Saxmundham Jct to boost resilience; a signalling upgrade at Melton station level crossing to improve train detection and enhance pedestrian safety; installing miniature stop lights at Bealings level crossing, alongside improved train detection; replacing timber decking at Beccles station; fitting new signalling bases and equipment between Saxmundham station and Saxmundham Jct; and carrying out track maintenance between Westerfield junction and Woodbridge.

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Passengers travelling between Ipswich and Lowestoft are advised to check journey plans and allow extra time while these improvements are carried out.

Melton station level crossing (A1152) will be temporarily closed to road traffic at times to complete the signalling work, including enhanced train detection technology. As this is a busy route, diversion plans are being agreed with the highway authority and will be communicated once confirmed.

From the end of May, pedestrians using Bealings level crossing will benefit from new miniature stop lights at the gates, helping users to know when it is safe to cross.

Travel information for Greater Anglia passengers:

Saturday 23 May 2026 to Sunday 24 May 2026: Buses will replace trains between Lowestoft and Ipswich. A separate shuttle bus will run for customers travelling to and from Beccles; these passengers will need to change bus at Halesworth.

Monday 25 May 2026 to Sunday 31 May 2026: Buses will replace trains between Halesworth and Ipswich, while trains continue to operate between Lowestoft and Halesworth.

Network Rail is partnering with the Sizewell C project to renew and upgrade parts of the East Suffolk line and the Sizewell branch, enabling the transportation of up to 60% of construction materials for the new power station by rail and sea.