Plans to run twice hourly services between Norwich and Cambridge were given Government backing today.

The Department of Transport (DFT) said it was its 'aspiration' to increase the frequency between the two cities after lobbying by the region's MPs.

But there was a setback from the region after the Government said the Greater Anglia long term franchise would be put back to 2016 after the government revised its timetable following the West Coast mainline debacle last year.

It is likely that the DfT will negotiate further short term contracts with Abellio after its latest contract runs out next year.

The Department for Transport said: 'Our aspiration is for two trains per hour on this line. The Department looks to the rail industry to plan for the growth and development of the network. If good business cases emerge for new capacity, we will ensure that funding is available to support the schemes that offer the best value for money.

MP George Freeman, who has called for work to be carried out at Ely junction to make it possible for twice hourly services to run between Norwich and Cambridge, aswell as between Cambridge and King's Lynn, said the DFT has listened to the arguments about Cambridge and Norwich.

He said: 'In 10 years it has gone from nought passengers to 900,000 passengers a year. There is a whole lot of growth coming down this line now which we need to account for.'

But Norfolk Chamber of Commerce chief executive Caroline Williams said that although it was understandable the franchise has been put back, it is disappointing.

She said: 'Norfolk is becoming increasingly important as a business centre down to the energy sector and Norwich Research Park. It is essential that we have the quality rail service which will only come about when the operators can look long term with a decent length franchise.'

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith said the objectives from the interim franchise and the next franchise remained the same.