AN EXTRA 1,400 seats are being made available on c2c trains in a bid to improve journeys for commuters.

The rail operator, which runs the Shoebury to London Fenchurch Street line, has revealed details of its new timetable, which show how busy trains are likely to be during the morning rush-hour.

With standing room taken into account, there will be space for 3,000 more passengers.

Commuters boarding trains at Basildon, Benfleet, Chafford Hundred and Ockendon are set to be the biggest winners.

c2c, part of National Express, has also unveiled a new-look train design which will be rolled out for shorter journey at peak times, including Pitsea starter trains.

Julian Drury, managing director of c2c, said: “We know our trains are getting busier, so our new timetable which starts in December will help more people making the longest journeys to get a seat. This is complemented by the new train design we’ve unveiled today for our shorter-distance peak trains, which provide more space and will help more passengers making short trips to get onboard. We’d really like feedback on this new look, so we want passengers to try the new train and tell us what they think.

“These improvements to capacity are part of our three-stage programme to transform the c2c service, combined with the new discounted tickets and smartcards we launched last year and the automatic compensation scheme for delayed passengers that will begin early next year."

The changes are part of a £12million upgrade programme on the c2c line, which will also see every train refreshed to provide passengers with a brighter, cleaner and more comfortable journey.