Network Rail has halted works to double the railway line between Ely and Soham, intended to increase the capacity for freight services in the area. 

A spokesperson for Network Rail says: “Earlier this year, we held our first feasibility consultation with residents and other interest parties in the Ely area to try and better understand the impact of the proposal to install a second track between Ely and Soham.”

After undertaking detailed surveys and ground investigation works, it has become clear that the project is more complex than was initially anticipated, and therefore much most costly. “The funding required to deliver the project by 2019 is more than the budget available,” Network Rail explains. 

The project has now been put on hold until the funding to deliver it is available, with the work that has already been undertaken to be continued when the project recommences. Network Rail will now work with Cambridgeshire County Council to determine if this will affect plans to reopen Soham railway station.