Have your say on proposed changes to train timetable

It includes changes between Colchester to Clacton and Walton on the Naze

Author: Lettie BuxtonPublished 9th Feb 2021

There is still time for people to have their say on proposed changes to the Great Eastern Main Line timetable.

It includes changes between Colchester to Clacton and Walton on the Naze, such as two or three direct trains per hour between Clacton and London at peak times Monday to Fridays and an hourly Sunday direct service between Clacton and London, with connecting shuttle between Walton and Thorpe.

The new timetable is set to come into effect in December 2021.

Greater Anglia's 12-week public consultation closes on Friday (12 February).

The proposals have been welcomed by MP for Clacton, Giles Watling, who is campaigning to enhance train services for the area and ensure the coronavirus pandemic does not lead to a reduction in services.

He said:

"As one who has been a part of the Clacton community since 1957, I know that we have never had great rail connectivity, and this has been holding back our economy in terms of travelling for work and leisure.

"So, I am thrilled that Greater Anglia have confirmed that it is their aim to introduce these service improvements.

"In particular, I am pleased that the reduction in some journey times will be significant and that there is a commitment to providing late services from London Liverpool Street, enabling residents to access the West End in comfort without rushing for the last train!"

Mr Watling added he has been "pushing for improvements for some time", and that this is a "massive step forward".

He also said he is "excited" about the roll out of new electric trains, which will start to serve north Essex later this year.

The 133 new five-carriage trains are made by UK manufacturer Bombardier.

They will have USB and plug points, fast free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, improved accessibility features including a disabled toilet on every train, better passenger information screens, and dedicated cycle spaces.

People can have their say on the timetable consultation online.

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