Quite often, in the pleasant summer conditions, I forego the train and the road and instead wander into Phoenix Towers from Shenfield.  The leafy overhang almost forms a natural tunnel, somehow allowing the warmth of the sun to come through, but keeping you cool at the same time.  Very nice indeed.

Perhaps now more locals may be putting on their comfy shoes for a walk as well.  Earlier today, before 2pm, this was the sight that greeted me on the Shenfield Road between the Nuffield Hospital and Middleton Hall Lane.

This is, of course, due to the ongoing construction work of the Crossrail scheme, linking Shenfield with a similarly modest and normally quiet village west of London.  The queues stretched into Brentwood town centre from past Crescent Drive, and from right down the High Street going the other way.

Wilsons Corner, predictably, was extremely busy, and turning into Ongar Road, the knock-on effect was evident too.

And this. remember, was a weekday afternoon, with no school run, a couple of hours before the rush hour really kicks in.

Is this the shape of things to come for Brentwood motorists?  If it is – get the train.  At least they tell you when their service is patchy or not going anywhere!

Or better still, have a wander, and enjoy the leafy mix of sun and breeze.  It’s lovely.  And jam free!