We have launched the public and stakeholder timetable consultation for the December 2021 timetable, when we are looking to adjust the timetables on the Great Eastern Main Line (GEML), the Southend Victoria line and the routes that connect into them, to take advantage of the benefits our new trains offer.
By that point all services on all those routes should be operated by new trains, so it’s therefore timely to look at how we optimise the impact of new trains on services, especially on journey times, performance and capacity.
The consultation lasts just over 12 weeks to Friday 12 February 2021, though early submissions will be much appreciated.
Please find below a PDF of the consultation document which can also be found at www.greateranglia.co.uk/december21tt. Submissions can be made online, via email or via post with details included in the attached document (which is the same as the document you can access via the website).
The document provides a high level summary of the proposed changes, as the timetables are still being developed and can change quite significantly during the development process, including as a result of this consultation, so we have highlighted key principles and expected outcomes. We will also need to take into account the emerging situation with the pandemic and the recovery from it, as we finalise the exact timetable details.
Although the capacity, capability and intensive utilisation of the rail infrastructure across our network very much influences the scope of what we can aim to achieve, we’re keen to make the most of the exciting attributes of our new trains, with their increased seating, quicker acceleration and braking and improved performance characteristics.
Whilst more radical aspirations may not be practical, there are still plenty of opportunities to put in place a better service, taking on board customer and stakeholder comments to fine tune the details, as we do so. There are also one or two specific areas, such as the scheduling of our Norwich in 90 services and proposals to provide a Braintree to Witham shuttle service with connections to/from London during off peak periods, on which feedback is specifically sought.
Our over-riding aims for the December 2021 GEML timetable will be to provide the best possible service for passengers and the region and to maximise the benefits of our new trains for customers and communities along both the GEML, Southend Victoria line and those lines which connect into them.
We hope you find the consultation helpful and we look forward to hearing your views and feedback to help us shape the best outcome for our region.