This week I met with the bosses of Greater Anglia to discuss trains in Chelmsford.
The new trains and carriages mean our local train service is now much more reliable. Volumes of users are now back at 94% of pre-covid levels.
They will soon start planning for the annual time table amendments which are usually introduced each May. I have asked for more Chelmsford starters. If you have comments or thoughts on the timetable please do email me on Vicky.ford.mp@parliament.uk
The new passing loop at Beaulieu Station will also help to make the service more reliable and flexible as fast trains can overtake slower, stopping services.
We discussed safety on the trains, especially for women and girls. The new carriages have state of the art CCTV. If you experience or witness any incidents on the trains you can text 61016. Greater Anglia work closely with British Transport Police and information from passengers, combined with the CCTV footage has been helpful at helping police go tackle county lines and other issues.
There are a number of weekend disruptions. This is largely because of the work on Beaulieu Station. I know the disruption can be very frustrating. I have asked for more regular updates on the work that is being carried out - including before and after photos - so we can see what is being done on the construction sites at weekends.
I have also asked the company for more flexibility with the flexy season ticket and for contactless ticketing to come to Chelmsford. Would this help you as a rail user? Please do email me with your views.
