I met new C2C Chief Executive, Rob Mullen, today to discuss the train operator's work to maintain this critical route transport link in the constituency.

C2C manage Upminster Station and I highlighted to Rob our continued campaign for step-free access to Platform 6 to make it easier for mobility-impaired people to access the route, as well as those with luggage and buggies. He is happy to make joint representations to the Department for Transport.

We also discussed maintenance to the footbridge at the station. It is due to be lifted out on the same weekend as WeAre festival - 6-7 August. I have asked the C2C team to review this and check plans for managing crowd flows - while their crane is booked for then and cannot be moved, I am concerned about whether this is a recipe for difficulties given the increased footfall and believe contingencies need to be looked at.

C2C have a new fleet of trains coming online soon that will include power points and WiFi. We expect them to be up and running by the end of this year. 

Finally, I asked about the likely impact of industrial action on services. Rob explained that C2C have broadly good industrial relations with those they directly employ, but they are affected by strikes at the maintenance depot, run by another company, which is impacting train repairs and checks. They also stand likely to be affected industrial action by the RMT on 27 July, with trains limited to operating between 07:30 and 18:30. Please keep an eye on their website for the latest details.

C2C usage is currently at 70% of pre-pandemic levels, with 84% of services running the same as December 2019.

If any constituent wishes us to raise any issues with C2C, please drop us a line - [email protected]