Rail users demand better Tendring service (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Rail user group Ontrack working to boost frequency and condition of Tendring trains

9:00am Friday 6th July 2012 in News

A RAIL user group has criticised a lack of trains in Tendring and says the problem is trapping residents in a “low income hell”.

Passenger group Ontrack says people in Tendring receive a sub-par service compared to other areas.

It has demanded more trains to give residents more opportunities outside the area.

Ontrack chairman John Smock said: “One of our main problems is the low frequency of trains in the area, particularly around the Clacton, Frinton and Walton area.

“A lot of people in Tendring are unemployed or trapped in low income jobs because they are deprived of decent transport links to better jobs outside the district.

“It is about time the people of Clacton and the surrounding areas had a good rail service to match a population that has more than doubled over the last 60 years.”

Mr Smock would like to see specific improvements to rail infrastructure and services in Tendring included in new long-term rail plans which are being outlined for the next franchise holder for the area.

Mr Smock added: “As a group we need to make sure people are aware of these problems with our train lines and take action to make it better.

“It is important that we talk to authorities and show there is a need for this improvement here.”

A Greater Anglia spokesperson said: “We will continue to work with our partners and stakeholders, including rail user groups, in making a positive case for additional investment in the region's rail services as part of future plans.”

Essex County Council is currently working with the rail industry and local enterprise panels to identify the key improvements that need to be made to railways.