IPSWICH'S MP has called for more investment in the train line between Ipswich and London to improve the infrastructure and speed up journeys.

IPSWICH'S MP has called for more investment in the train line between Ipswich and London to improve the infrastructure and speed up journeys.

Chris Mole made the call after travelling along the Ipswich to London railway line in the cab of a National Express East Anglia train to investigate the challenges faced by Ipswich commuters.

Mr Mole, who was on yesterday's 10.40am service to Liverpool Street, was accompanied by Andrew Goodrum, mainline business manager and Bob Broadhead, train crew and operations manager.

He said: “This was a good opportunity to see the issues that National Express face for providing a regular and reliable service on the train line between Ipswich and London.

“I was sorry to see that there are more speed restrictions in place than desirable and would urge Network Rail to continue to invest in necessary and routine maintenance to clear these up as quickly as possible.

“Travelling in the cab of the train gave me the 'birds-eye' view of the age of some of the overhead power lines - some of which are over 60 years old - and I would be keen for Network Rail to accelerate their programme of replacing these, which continue to be the source of faults in extreme weather conditions.”

As well as discussing current challenges facing the route, Mr Mole was also told that National Express is submitting a proposal to government that could bring an additional 100 plus vehicles on to the network.

He said: “I was encouraged to hear that National Express are submitting a proposal to government to hugely increase capacity and reduce overcrowding on this route during peak periods. I know this step would be hugely popular with my constituents.”