The House of Commons Question session concentrated on addressing ongoing challenges and improvements related to the East Coast Main Line. Tracy Gilbert, representing the Edinburgh North and Leith constituency, prompted a critical discussion regarding service reliability on this rail line. Concerns were shared about frequent delays that have adversely affected passengers.
Lilian Greenwood responded by highlighting a significant government commitment to enhancing the East Coast Main Line with a substantial £4 billion investment. This initiative encompasses infrastructure upgrades coupled with enhancing rolling stock, aimed at overall improvements in journey time, reliability, and capacity. Greenwood clarified timelines, stating that passengers can anticipate the full effects of these investments with a revised timetable slated for December 2025.
Total government investment in infrastructure and rolling stock improvements for the East Coast Main Line.
Tracy Gilbert further sought clarity on the introduction of digital signalling, a part of the technological advances promised by the department. Greenwood confirmed the integration of such digital advancements on portions of the line and introduced tangible timelines stating that while digital signalling would begin from early 2026, its benefits would gradually be realized over subsequent years, with full implementation in the early 2030s.
Expected date for the revised timetable unveiling aimed at delivering improved journey efficiencies.
This session delivered new insights into planned timelines for technological transitions on the line and reaffirmed government commitment to resolving commuter issues through substantial investments and technological upgrades.
Introduction date for first trains to run under the new digital signalling on the East Coast Main Line.
Projected completion date for the digital signalling programme on the East Coast Main Line.
Outcome
- Assurance of continued support and investment in the East Coast Main Line from the Department for Transport.
- A timeline was provided for the rollout and full implementation of digital signalling, stretching into the early 2030s, and enhancing service reliability.
- Public acknowledgment of service difficulties and that improvements are underway.
Key Contributions
Questioned steps being taken to improve reliability on the East Coast Main Line, with a focus on recent commuter concerns.
Outlined a £4 billion investment initiative for the East Coast Main Line, aimed at improving journey time, reliability, and capacity.
All content derived from official parliamentary records