Stephen
Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, championed the views
of local residents at his second Rail Summit this week, held at East Tilbury
Library.
The Summit,
organised and chaired by Mr Metcalfe, brought together key stakeholders and
organisations to discuss local rail related issues such as level crossings
throughout Thurrock and plans for a possible transport hub at Stanford-Le-Hope
Station.
Among those in
attendance were local rail providers C2C and Network Rail, community leaders
including representatives from Thurrock Council, and members of the Stanford
Forum.
The local MP
presented attendees with a report containing the results of a survey on level
crossings in East Tilbury that was sent to over 2,000 local residents. As a
result, all parties have committed to working together to look into potential
solutions to the problems at the crossing which primarily include limited
access to emergency services and congestion when the barriers are down.
Mr Metcalfe
commented: “Like earlier this year, the Rail Summit provided an excellent
opportunity to air local concerns and to look cooperatively for potential
solutions. Whilst there no quick fixes to many of the issues raised I was
extremely pleased to see the wide array of parties come together to put local
people at the heart of their future plans.”
“I would like
to thank all those who responded to my survey on level crossings in East
Tilbury and those who let me know their views by email or letter. I appreciate
the strength of feeling that this issue engenders and I am committed to keeping
the pressure on to find a solution. I will also look carefully at how a full
feasibility study of the crossing might be undertaken.”
“I would also
like to thank all those who gave up their time to attend the Summit and
contribute so constructively to the discussion. I look forward to continuing
our work together in the future.”
