Greater Anglia line from Ipswich to Cambridge set for rail station improvements in Thurston, Elmswell, Stowmarket and Needham Market

Improvements to Suffolk rail stations could be on the horizon with the introduction of a new community scheme.

Those traveling in and around Thurston, Elmswell, Stowmarket and Needham Market on Greater Anglia services may see investments to the stations as part of the community rail partnership (CRP).

Mid Suffolk District Council voted to support the CRP which aims to promote economic development, community engagement and sustainable travel.

Cllr Jen Overett, ward councillor for Elmswell and Woolpit, said: “The Ipswich to Cambridge line is used by thousands of passengers every day and setting up a community rail partnership will help to encourage more people to use the service, making our railway stations a much stronger part of our communities.

“Taking the train is a very sustainable way of travelling and we want to help our residents reduce their carbon footprints – so it’s about time we in Mid Suffolk got involved in a partnership like this one.

“It won’t be a quick fix for all the issues that our railway lines face, but it will give us a much louder voice at the table and ensure that our council has a greater say in the future of rail travel in our area.”

Greater Anglia already has six CRPs in operation covering 13 routes making this the company’s seventh partnership to date.

The scheme would focus on accessibility, mental health, exclusion and isolation, and general station improvements through murals or floral displays.