A RAIL firm boss has pledged to improve a station’s run down car park after admitting he was disappointed to see pictures illustrating its dilapidation.

Martin Goss, Colchester councillor responsible for transport, previously called the car park at Colchester Station “an unattractive concrete dump”.

He sent on pictures of overgrown weeds and litter to Jamie Burles, managing director of Greater Anglia, demanding action.

Mr Goss is incensed after the firm implemented a near tenper cent parking price hike at the station for the third year running.

While Greater Anglia justifies the rise by promising to invest millions in its car parks and infrastructure, campaigners fear Colchester is being left behind.

Responding to the councillor’s complaint, Mr Burles said: “It was disappointing to see the images you provided.

“I can confirm since these [pictures] were taken arrangements were made for litter to be cleared and additional checks put in place going forward.

“Further to the overgrown vegetation in the car park, in the interest of passenger safety, our vegetation control team had prioritised the platform.

“However, I have ensured work has since been undertaken and preventative treatments implemented.

“With regards to lighting, on assessment of the station, one column was found out of line and faulted with our contractor for rectification.

“Work is taking place to improve the appearance of the car park, including relining which will occur in a few months’ time when ground temperatures are suitable for paint adhesion.”

But Mr Burles reply did not placate Mr Goss, who insisted the steps being taken were not enough.

“It doesn’t justify the cost increases for the last three years,” he said.

“Things regarding Greater Anglia as a whole appear to be getting worse, not better despite the claimed investment.

“We have new failed trains that simply do not work, a worse than ever train service across the network and unjustified price increases.

“However, Greater Anglia have lovely new uniforms. I wonder how much that cost to deliver and how it improves services?”