A PROPOSED £600 million tram line should be extended to run alongside the A127 from Basildon to Southend, it was claimed this week.

KenEx Thames Transit is planning to build a tram link between north Kent and south Essex, with services calling at Thurrock, Basildon and Canvey.

The two main routes would be 30km but Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said that a Southend link was too good an opportunity to miss.

He said: “I think it would be easier to install and cheaper than a train line as it’s a light railway.

“I also expect it would cost less then a road of the A127 scale and so would be feasible I think. I also think that as it can stop easier it would be more popular than other public transport which people feel does not meet their needs.

“This is something I am committed to pushing on.

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Once KenEx progresses its plans more I want to make sure the firm and the Government know we shouldn’t miss out on this opportunity.

“It can help unlock the growth and improve the experience of residents and commuters.”

The planned project also includes a new 1.2km tunnel under the River Thames.

Although no timescale has been set out for the project, it has been discussed for several years, with support from councils across the region.

Ron Woodley, Independent deputy leader of Southend Council also said it would be hugely beneficial for the south of the county.

He said: “I can’t see why we wouldn’t be doing this if it’s possible. I could be a fantastic method of transport for people in the south of Essex.

“I think it would also make it safer for people to travel especially if it was a hop on and off service.

“It would also connect other parts and towns in our part of the county.

“We all know about the congestion and traffic in Southend town centre and along the seafront.”

Mr Woodley has also spoken out in favour of a similar idea to connect Southend with parts of Rayleigh and other areas around the A127.