1 February 2011

Peter Aldous today commented as Suffolk County Council’s Capital Programme Committee agreed to the funding necessary for the completion of the Beccles Loop.

This is a clear indication that the final approval for the budget to build the Loop will be approved by Suffolk County Council.

The confirmation would lead to an hourly train service between Lowestoft and Ipwich.

Mr Aldous campaigned vigorously for Central Government funding for the completion of the Loop since being elected in May 2010 and in October 2010 secured a commitment from Transport Minister Philip Hammond for £3 million of the £4 million needed to complete the loop.

Mr Aldous said:

“This is excellent news for the area and another step towards improving our infrastructure which is critical to bringing new jobs to the area. It took a significant amount of work to secure central Government funding in October so I am very pleased that Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet have realised how important this is and are set to give the go-ahead to the work that will enable an hourly service to Ipswich to be provided. In the coming months I will continue to campaign for further improvements including the upgrading of Lowestoft and Beccles stations and for the return of a through service from Lowestoft to Liverpool Street. This will enhance the attraction of the Waveney area to both visitors and businesses.”