Nice To C2C You - On Time !! (C2C Rail)

Member Name: sdean

Product:	C2C Rail
Date:	17/04/09 (150 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: On time, clean air conditioned, frequent trains

Disadvantages: None ! - except the usual price hike in january

The last review on there was nearly 8 years ago, so I thought this could use an update for travellers out there

I have been using C2C Trains for nearly 3 years since moving to Essex. I commute daily into London. This currently is a weekly cost of £45.60. It can be very expensive commuting into the smoke, however some people have got it a lot worse than me.
My trains come into the small but perfectly formed station at Fenchurch Street. A 4 platformed station which is managed by C2C as these are the only trains which use this station. Compared to the 18 platformed stations within London, I am very happy with mine. Trains run every 5-10 minutes in peak time and every 20 minutes non peak.

When I started using this service, people would tell me how horrific these trains used to be, always late, dirty, non air conditioned, cramped and well, what we come to expect of our trains these days. A few years ago they had a massive revamp. These trains are between 4 and 12 carriages travelling between Southend and London Fenchurch Street and are air conditioned and have a month on month punctuality rate of between 95-99%

The only instances when these trains are delayed seem to be valid. Adverse weather conditions, when people have been messing about with the overhead cables or a bridge has been unsafe. Within an hour the trains seem to function normally. So if I am ever late, it is at the most within an hour. These trains are a credit to Essex, they are consistent and even though the prices rise every year without fail - including January this year (which we all could have done without) you have no cause to complain as the trains are very well run.

A few months ago at my station the barrier staff were changed. Now most of us are normal law abiding commuters who have season tickets etc. But there were a few (trying to get on the train) who were not. I noticed on several occasions the barrier staff turned a blind eye to youngsters jumping over barriers. I meant to complain, I really did especially when my fares rise because of this. But I forgot and had other things to do. But recently I have noticed new staff, who weren't just going to open the large gate for everyone, they made us all go through the electronic barriers, with them watching, there is at least two staff, three on some occasions and even though this is more time consuming, I can see a difference.

These are the ways that C2C are improving, and you can see it. The platform at my station has also been extended, presumably to take the longer trains (as we have a third platform which terminates there could only take 4 carriages) again more improvements to an excellent service.

Admittedly when I visit my friends on the commuter trains from Liverpool Street or London Bridge I see a massive difference. No seats, filthy un-air-conditioned trains and trains which desperately need to be upgraded.

I think you can see I am really happy with the service and this doesn't change off peak as they are still as reliable if less frequent. I just hope they keep up the good work!

Summary: C2C - one of the most punctual train services around !