CAPACITY on trains used by London-bound commuters will be increased by 20 per cent as part of £38billion plans.

On Monday morning Network Rail unveiled a five year plan to make improvements in rail infrastructure around the UK.

Included in the plans is a move to up capacity for passengers travelling into London including on the Greater Anglia line, which runs between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street, by 20 per cent during peak hours.

Also mentioned in the investment plans are the electrifying of 850 miles of train track, major station upgrades and up to 700 more trains between northern cities.

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said the record amounts of money being ploughed into the railways will benefit the whole nation.

Mr McLoughlin said: “A key part of this Government's long-term economic plan is investing in world-class infrastructure.

“That is why we are putting record amounts of Government funding into our railways over the next five years.

"That investment will generate growth, create jobs and boost business while delivering faster journeys, greater comfort and better punctuality for passengers across the UK."