NEWER trains and faster journeys are just two of the promises being made to train users as part of an ambitious new scheme.

A four-county alliance was launched on Monday, outlining future upgrades to rail services in the region.

The blueprint for East Anglia could see up to £300million spent on new track, new intercity trains and the refurbishment of stations between now and 2032.

The aim is to have trains travelling up to 110mph on the majority of routes in the region, thanks to new improved track.

Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council member for economic growth, said: “This is an opportunity to lobby the Government for help with real improvements to the rail lines in the region.

“The rail lines in East Anglia are easily among the busiest in the country and if you are a commuter you know the trains and train lines need improvement.”

The alliance promoting the project consists of Essex County Council and local councils in the county as well as Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire county councils.

Passenger groups and MPs are also supporting the proposals.

The project will see Brentwood and Shenfield railway stations revamped and new trains used on the line from Liverpool Street to Colchester.

The major scheme to affect Essex will be a new railway station built to the north of Chelmsford.

The new Beaulieu Park station, costing about £45million, will provide another point on the network where trains can pass each other which, Mr Bentley said, will help improve journey times.

Stephen Nolan, 31, of Mount Avenue, Shenfield, commutes daily from Shenfield to Liverpool Street.

He said: “As long as it doesn’t lead to an increase in fares then I’m sure everyone who uses trains, particularly commuters, will be keen to see any improvements.

“Faster trains sound great as it’ll mean more time in bed in the mornings.”