New railway station features in draft transport plan

Officials looking to expand transport links and support major housing growth in a borough over the next 15 years have proposed plans for a new railway station.

Thurrock Council's draft transport strategy sets out how the borough's road, rail, walking and cycling networks could evolve alongside planned development.

It includes a new station for the Essex town of Corringham - on the line between Stanford-le-Hope and Pitsea - providing rail access for residents in Corringham, Fobbing and Lower Langdon.

Council documents say the station would play a key role in supporting housing growth and improve connections for existing communities with limited access to public transport.

The draft strategy also highlights longstanding concerns about the level crossing at the northern end of Fobbing, describing it as both a safety issue and a physical barrier that divides the village.

The strategy states: "With large developments foreseen in Corringham, a new railway station between Stanford-le-Hope and Pitsea will enable sustainable travel... and improve connectivity of existing communities."

The railway proposal is one of several major transport schemes earmarked for the area, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

There are plans for new road infrastructure around Corringham and Fobbing - including a new bridge across the railway line and a new route parallel to Southend Road - to help cope with rising traffic levels as the area expands.

According to the council, the new bridge would allow the existing hump-backed railway bridge on Southend Road to be downgraded for use by pedestrians and cyclists.

It describes Corringham and Fobbing as areas that combine historic village character with growing residential communities, but notes that transport links have struggled to keep pace with development.

The document is due to be considered by full council on Wednesday.

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