new branch line, hitchin

[truck71]

Just north of Hitchin on the ECML a new branch has appeared with a flyover to boot- what's that about?

[Boatbuoy]

It's the north bound flyover to the Cambridge line. Previously northbound trains to Cambridge on the slow line had to cross both fast lines via level points causing a bit of a timetable bottleneck. Southbound trains joining the ECML continue to use the old route as they do not have to cross any lines. New single track northbound route shown in red.

[Tango13]

I used to work up that way, there was a massive and highly illegal amphetamine sulphate factory by the motor factors!

[truck71]

Boatbuoy said:

It's the north bound flyover to the Cambridge line. Previously northbound trains to Cambridge on the slow line had to cross both fast lines via level points causing a bit of a timetable bottleneck. Southbound trains joining the ECML continue to use the old route as they do not have to cross any lines. New single track northbound route shown in red.

Ahh, gotcha- thanks for that.

[Ali Chappussy]

It's been there for quite a while now. Boatbouy is spot on!

[woodypup59]

It cost £ 180 million - all to shave 5 mins off the London to Cambridge trip.

[Boatbuoy]

Isn't it more about not obstructing the ECML? The fact that 5 minutes is saved is a by product. If you thought £180m was a lot, wait until the tackle the next bottleneck; Digswell viaduct.

[Tango13]

Boatbuoy said:

Isn't it more about not obstructing the ECML? The fact that 5 minutes is saved is a by product. If you thought £180m was a lot, wait until the tackle the next bottleneck; Digswell viaduct.

http://www.networkrail.co.uk/aspx/6397.aspx

As to the Digswell Viaduct it took 3yrs to build the original, I shudder to think how long the public enquiry will last nevermind the construction.