CHELMSFORD’S MP has called for new trains on the Chelmsford to Liverpool Street line.

Tory Simon Burns wants to see new rolling stock made a condition of the franchise that will replace Greater Anglia, which has been awarded a two year extension to its contract.

Mr Burns put his comments to the Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, who said it would be something he would look at.

Mr Burns said: “New rolling stock for commuters on the Chelmsford to London Liverpool Street line is long overdue. The start of a new long-term franchise in 2016 is an ideal opportunity to press for new rolling stock and that is why I think it is important it is put in as a condition for the new franchise.”

Most trains operating on the line are at least 20 years old and Peter Radford, leader of the Chelmsford Commuters and Rail Travellers group, said new stock was long overdue.

He said: “Apart from the First Capital Connect line, we’ve got the oldest stock around the London commuter area and have had very little upgraded.”

Derek Monnery, chairman of the Essex Rail Users Federation added commuters felt cheated with fares going up despite shabby conditions.

He said: “Successive governments have starved the area of the cash needed to keep our trains up to date and in good condition.”