The grounds of Hylands Park could form part of the route for a new Chelmsford/Epping/Ongar rail route if proposals being put forward in an official study come to fruition.
The government-commissioned London to Ipswich Multi Modal Study (LOIS) looks at travel and transport issues in the area between the two cities over the next 30 years.
A "preferred strategy" comes up with, among other ideas, the new rail link with possible connections to Stansted, Stratford, and Crossrail Two at Kings Cross.
At the same time, alarm bells are ringing that Essex County Council could be giving the green light to a dualling of the A414 between Chelmsford and Harlow in their official response to consultation.
The Hylands House risk was highlighted in a report to a full meeting of Chelmsford Council last week.
While one map shows the possible route going through the mansion's grounds, another shows it further north.
Councillors agreed that while welcoming a westwards rail link they need much more information, and consultation, on its alignment.
On the rail link a county council spokesman said: "There is no specific route. Hylands House is one of Essex's treasures and would need to be treated very carefully.
"The spectre of the possible dualling of the A414, with its associated planning blight problems, was raised at Tuesday's meeting of Essex County Council's cabinet.
The response supported new rail links, but said if they could not be implemented then "upgrading" of the A414 between Chelmsford and the M11 should be looked at.
Published Friday, January 31, 2003
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