Essex locals say they want London Underground to be extended to Chelmsford

Chelmsford residents showed strong opinions on extending the London Underground into Essex, arguing that improved accessibility would benefit the area. Currently, Chelmsford is served only by a railway station offering direct trains to Stratford and Liverpool Street.

Many locals think that integrating the London Underground system into Chelmsford would reduce costs for commuters. Emily Galvin, 33, said: "It'd be great if it did come to Chelmsford, especially as there are so many commuters here. And the train prices are crazy!"

Evie Cox, 20, agreed that it would be better for people commuting. She added: “I really think it should be extended. I think it would be beneficial to people that live in Essex, as it would be a lot cheaper for commuting in.”

READ MORE: The new Essex venue that will teach children under 17 how to drive

READ MORE: Essex Pride in pictures as LGBTQ+ community celebrates in the Chelmsford sun

Andrew Willis, 69, spoke enthusiastically about the benefits of the Elizabeth Line reaching Chelmsford. He said: "On the Elizabeth Line, you can travel a very long way very quickly. And it would make it very easy to get from Chelmsford straight into London, or even Heathrow airport, and come back out in a short amount of time.”

Two people who asked not to be named noted that a London Underground connection would benefit people who work in the capital, as they could move to Chelmsford and avoid high housing costs. They added: “The cost of living in London is extortionate - no one can afford that. I believe living in more affordable areas with reliable access to London is a no-brainer.”

But not all locals support the idea of extending the London Underground into Essex. Matt Brock, 50, said: "I think there's a high population of people in Essex already. And if the London Underground comes further in, I think the population will increase drastically and it will almost sort of become London - and London's London and Essex's Essex."

Have your say on whether the London Underground should extend further into Essex by voting in EssexLive’s poll below. If the poll doesn't load on your browser, please click here to have your say.