Hitchin Flyover
Hitchin is at the heart of an increasingly popular railway on the East Coast Main Line between London and Scotland, it marks the point at which the line divides towards Letchworth and Cambridge.
The last decade has seen a 35% increase in passengers travelling between Peterborough and London and an 18% increase in journeys between London and Cambridge. In addition the amount of freight carried by rail nationally has increased by a massive 60% putting added pressure on the network. Cambridge Junction, north of Hitchin station, is one of the key bottle necks on the line. By taking the line to Cambridge over the East Coast main Line rather than across it, trains from Hitchin to Cambridge no longer have to cross three other lines, increasing capacity and reliability.
The Hitchin Flyover will therefore create a new main link between the East Coast Main Line and Cambridge which will help to:
- Create extra capacity to run more services to and from London every hour
- Reduce delays to train services making the railway more punctual and reliable
- Keep the railway open when essential maintenance is needed, by keeping one link between Hitchin and Cambridge open whilst the other is being worked on.
A new access road off Stotfold Road just north of the railway bridge, is being built to accommodate the large amounts of material being brought to site by lorry and speeds along Stotfold Road will be limited to 40mph.
Throughout the construction NHDC are working in partnership with Network Rail and Hertfordshire County Council to ensure that residents, businesses and other organisations are kept informed on its progress.
Network rail operates a 24 hour helpline on 08457 114141 where a team of regional community relations advisors are able to respond to any concerns.
Timetable of works:
April 2009: Plans for the flyover displayed to the public
September 2009: Plans handed over to government for approval
November 2009: Herts County Council opposes plans after Wilbury residents present petition
October 2010: Plans given secretary of state approval – but some recommendations still not approved
March 2011: Secretary of State for Transport Philip Hammond approves the scheme
April 2011: Deemed planning permission submitted
September 2011: Contractors Hochtief appointed
October 2011: Work begins on preparing the site
November 2011: Work to begin on road access
Early 2012: Major works to begin
November 2013: Completion of scheme expected
