A rail loop in the north of Witham could be built by 2024, it has been announced.

The system is hoped to increase the number of trains passing through the station, while also cutting journey times.

The new track would work by separating passenger trains from freight trains, and enabling faster ones to pass by slower moving carriages.

Chelmsford MP Simon Burns commented: "Network Rail accepted the need for the loop and I think they'll be able to find the money to do it.”

The MP had been lobbying for improvements to be made on the Norwich to London Liverpool Street line.

However, he did note that it was important to keep the pressure on Network Rail to ensure the plan happens sooner rather than later.