Update to article originally published 1st December 2025
Network Rail has been in touch to advise about railway improvement works taking place near Ingatestone Level Crossing in January and February 2026. I am told these essential works form part of a major programme to renew and maintain track infrastructure, ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of the railway. They will take place at weekends.
Attached, is a resident’s letter that details the scope of the works and the closures.
The latest information from Network Rail about the works is as follows:
Ingatestone track work in early 2026 to boost main line reliability
Network Rail will be replacing worn-out track close to Ingatestone station over five consecutive weekends starting 10/11 January, helping to keep Greater Anglia trains running reliably between London Liverpool Street and Norwich.
Engineers will be replacing three sets of points that are part of a passing loop on the main line. The loop allows faster trains to pass slower ones and is crucial for maintaining a punctual service. New track needs to be installed to minimise faults that could cause delays, and durable concrete sleepers will replace timber versions that currently support the points in places.
As part of the job, the team will also replace 450 metres of straight track, as well as a buffer stop that allows the passing loop to be used flexibly and safely.
The work will affect Greater Anglia services, with changes including bus replacement in operation on part of the line between London Liverpool Street – Norwich. Further details are shown below and passengers should check greateranglia.co.uk before they travel.
In addition, the Ingatestone level crossing on Station Lane/Hall Lane will need to be closed to road traffic over all the affected weekends, from 2300 on Friday to 0600 on Monday in each case. A short, signposted diversion will be in place for drivers.
Liam Allen, Network Rail Anglia infrastructure maintenance engineer, said: “This work will help to keep passengers moving safely and reliably on the Great Eastern main line for years to come. We’re really sorry for the disruption over the five weekends, but this is a vital job and we need the track access and level crossing closures to get it done.”
Martin Beable, managing director for Greater Anglia, said: “This project will help to modernise the railway and maintain our high standards of punctuality and reliability. We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while Network Rail carry out this work.”
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 January
Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 January
Buses replace trains between Marks Tey – Billericay as well as between Braintree – Witham. Trains will run between Billericay and London Liverpool Street, with the Southend Victoria line staying in operation.
Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January
As above, but buses will also replace trains between Sudbury – Marks Tey.
Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February
Buses replace trains between Beaulieu Park – Billericay. Trains will run between Billericay – London Liverpool Street, with the Southend Victoria line staying in operation.
Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February
Buses replace trains between:
Colchester – Billericay
Braintree – Witham
Sudbury – Marks Tey
Trains will run between Billericay – London Liverpool Street, with the Southend Victoria line staying in operation.
