I entirely agree with David Humphrey (letters, July 13) that improvements need to be made to the Witham to Braintree train service.

However, what is required is not just a loop at Cressing, but the installation of double track throughout the line, as well as its extension to Stansted Airport.

This could be done now, while land is still available; any hesitation will lead to the land being built on, and so costs for creating a new railway line might then be prohibitive.

There are huge advantages in extending the line. Trains would be able to travel to London not just via the congested Great Eastern main line, as at present, but also via the Lea Valley line.

During times of disruption, trains could be diverted from one of these lines.

A new station could be constructed in the Great Dunmow area with a big car park to cater for the inhabitants of all the new housing in that area.

This would be a much sounder investment than more roads, which cause increased congestion and pollution.

Is our local and national government willing to take the bold decision now to build this new railway line?

I certainly hope so, as time is of the essence.

By David Martin of Bridge Street