AN ESSEX MP has called on the Government to use money set aside for infrastructure projects on the county’s ailing roads and rail networks.

Priti Patel, MP for Witham, made her comments during a speech in the House of Commons this week in relation to a �50billion investment plan unveiled in July.

She said, despite rail commuters in the region returning �110million a year to the Treasury, they face some of the longest delays and worst facilities in the country. She also said the importance of the A12 and A120 road networks could not be underestimated, but that despite this, the county had been neglected in recent years.

Speaking afterwards, the MP said: “Essex has missed out on investment in recent years as our roads and railways were completely neglected by the last Labour Government. Our railways are not fit for purpose and our roads, especially the A120 and A12, are in need of long overdue improvements to increase capacity and make them safer.

“Essex is an engine of economic growth for the whole country and with better infrastructure we can create more jobs and growth.

“I welcome the new investment to make in Britain’s infrastructure and will be fighting for Essex and my constituency to get their fair share.”