Train operators one are introducing timetable changes including extra stops at Kelvedon following an uproar over services.

The shake-up from Monday (February 7) follows "rigorous monitoring" of the timetable brought in last December, says the company.

City worker Mark Leslie, who launched a rail users group at Kelvedon in response to concern over cuts introduced in the December timetable, welcomed the new services.

He said: "It's a step in the right direction and we are pleased they have taken notice of passenger disquiet."

The changes include the 17.02 Liverpool Street- Harwich International calling at Kelvedon at 17.50 and the 18.02 Liverpool Street-Ipswich calling additionally at Kelvedon at 18.50.

The 15.48 Colchester-Liverpool Street will also call additionally at Kelvedon at 15.59 to meet journey needs for schoolchildren.

There will be a new service from Liverpool Street-Colchester departing at 15.32 and calling at Shenfield, Ingatestone, Chelmsford, Hatfield Peverel, Witham and arriving at Colchester at 16.33.

Mr Leslie said he was would be pressing for a return to the old timetable when there is further revision in the summer. Since December the number of trains stopping at Kelvedon between 5.45pm and 6.30pm had been reduced from four to one.

Managing director of one Tim Clarke said: "In recognising that some passengers have raised concerns in respect of the new timetable, we have listened to the feedback and will continue to do so in ensuring that we are able to provide the best possible level of service for all our customers."

Train service punctuality was in excess of 90 per cent during January .

The first annual meeting of the Kelvedon Rail Users' Association is scheduled for Wednesday February 16 at the Kelvedon Institute.

Published Monday February 7, 2005

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