Rural Paths Campaign: We want safe routes for walkers, wheelers and cyclists between all the settlements of the Dengie

Everybody, of all ages, should have real mobility choices for travelling around the Dengie.

We've responded to consultations on the Essex Highways Local Transport Plan (LTP4) and county Local Cycling Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) but we found them unambitious and we still await action on the ground to improve active travel infrastructure. The LCWIP states that Autumn/Winter 2025/2026 will see the 'Development of pipeline of infrastructure schemes' [sic], so we hope to learn more soon and see our recommendations implemented.

We have taken up the reins of the 20+ year campaign for a safe cycle route between the adjoining settlements of Southminster and Burnham-on-Crouch. This route should continue on to also connect Asheldham, Tillingham and Bradwell-on-Sea.

The Crouch Valley Railway line provides a core transport corridor connecting settlements on the Dengie into the wider UK railway network and alleviating local roads. New housing developments should be oriented to use this resource. With few employment opportunities on the peninsula, most workers are commuters and should be enabled to use the railway as their main form of transportation.

We want to stay connected
New train stock has recently improved the commuted experience but onboard WiFi, which could enhance productivity, is terrible and must be improved

We want increased capacity to meet the growth in populationThe branch line currently has only one passing place, at North Fambridge, limiting service capability. There is space at several places to restore double track and increase line capacity.

We want to go out and come back by train!
The current operational hours on the branch line curtail mobility options. 

Meeting the last service of the day requires leaving London Liverpool Street at 22.13 (21.23 on Sundays) and Southend Victoria at 22.29 (21.23 on Sundays). 

The first service of the day on Sunday does not depart Southminster until 08.07 [all times from Winter 2025/26 timetable]. 

The mainline offers much longer operational hours. Many leisure experiences therefore require an expensive taxi ride to complete the journey home, and those who work late or at weekends are unable to use the train.