A VITAL rail link from Felixstowe port has been given an �8million cash boost.The European Union has agreed to inject the money into a scheme to improve the Felixstowe to Nuneaton rail route.

A VITAL rail link from Felixstowe port has been given an �8million cash boost.

The European Union has agreed to inject the money into a scheme to improve the Felixstowe to Nuneaton rail route.

The project to allow the movement of large shipping containers from the port has already been given the green light, but the news of the money will make funding it easier.

The new line will allow freight to be shifted from the port using more sustainable modes of transport and is designed to alleviate congestion on the A14 road.

Paul Davey, head of corporate affairs at Felixstowe Port, said: “We are very keen to increase the volume of traffic moving by rail and this will help us achieve this goal.

“I think it is encouraging that the route has been identified as a priority by the EU and that the UK government recognises the importance of connections to ports.”

Labour's Richard Howitt MEP said: "I have been pressing hard in Brussels for this badly needed project to get the green light. Now more than ever this news of an �8m investment is a welcome injection to our local economy, bringing investment in infrastructure and protecting local jobs.

"For Felixstowe Port this means that it can continue growing and continue creating local jobs by expanding its freight capacity and taking freight off congested roads.

" From the dockworkers in Felixstowe to the thousands of commuters who use the A14 everyday, and those such as myself who back sustainable transport, everyone will agree that this announcement is a massive and welcome boost to our community."

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