A THURROCK MP has raised urgent concerns over what he describes as 'the worsening situation' at the East Tilburt rail crossing on Princess Margaret Road in East Tilbury.

South Basildon and East Thurrock MP James McMurdock has warnedechoed many local views that say increased freight traffic is causing longer barrier closures and posing serious risks to residents.

In a letter to Thurrock Council Mr McMurdock highlighted the impact of extended crossing closures, which have left residents feeling isolated and raised fears over emergency access. Local residents say ambulances and fire engines could be delayed for critical minutes when the barriers are down, potentially endangering lives.

Mr McMurdock, whose constituency office is based in East Tilbury, said he has personally experienced the disruption.

"When the crossing is down for such long periods of time, the community is effectively isolated," he said. "This isn't just an inconvenience for residents; it's a real safety concern."

The MP has submitted parliamentary questions to the Department for Transport, which responded that Network Rail is "listening to the feedback from the community."

However, with no pedestrian or vehicular bridge in place, residents remain trapped whenever the barriers are lowered.

"This simply isn't good enough," Mr McMurdock said. "The situation cannot continue as it is. I will continue to press both Thurrock Council and Network Rail until proper action is taken to ensure the safety and accessibility of the village."

The crossing, which serves both passenger and freight trains to and from Tilbury Docks, has seen a rise in freight services in recent months. Residents say this has led to longer and more frequent closures, disrupting daily life and raising concerns about emergency response times.

Lengthy delays waiting for a freight train crossing in East Tilbury:-

A spokesperson for Network Rail acknowledged the community's frustration.

"We understand the frustration caused by longer barrier closures at East Tilbury and are listening to community concerns," they said.

"The crossing is a key route for passenger and growing freight services, and barriers must remain closed while trains pass to keep everyone safe, including emergency responders."

They added: "We recognise a bridge could ease delays, and we would welcome discussions with local and national partners on how this could be funded."

Residents and campaigners are now calling for urgent action to address the issue before a serious incident occurs.

On Thursday (9 October) problems in the village were exacerbated when the second rail crossing, to the south of East Tilbury, was shut after an HGV vehicle struck a barrier. It wasn't until mid afternoon that Network Rail engineers were able to repair the damage.