Commuters excited as major train station in Essex to get new fish and chips vending machine

Bosses at Greater Anglia have announced the installation of the UK’s first-ever fish and chips vending machine at North station in Colchester.

The innovative machine, which promises freshly fried fish and chips in under two minutes, is expected to be operational by the end of the month.

Officials say the machine will offer a range of options, including classic cod and chips, battered sausages, mushy peas, and even pickled eggs, all served piping hot at the push of a button.

According to the developers, the vending machine uses a “state-of-the-art flash-frying system” that ensures each portion is cooked to perfection within minutes. Frozen fish fillets and pre-cut chips are stored inside the machine, where they are dropped into hot oil on demand, drained, and served in a biodegradable box.

A spokesperson for Greater Anglia hailed the project as “a game-changer for station food.”

“Passengers are often in a rush and don’t always have time to queue at a chippy,” they said. “This machine guarantees a fresh, hot meal faster than you can say ‘salt and vinegar’”

While some commuters are excited about the prospect of deep-fried convenience, others have raised concerns about the logistics of operating a fish fryer inside a vending machine.

“Who’s cleaning it? Will it smell like a chippy in the waiting room? And what if it catches fire?” asked one sceptical commuter.

Greater Anglia has reassured the public that the machine has been rigorously tested to meet all health and safety regulations. The vending unit is equipped with a self-cleaning oil filtration system and odour-neutralising technology, they claim.

Local fish and chip shop owners have expressed mixed feelings about the project. While some see it as an amusing novelty, others worry it could undercut traditional chippies.

“I just don’t see how a vending machine can match the taste of proper, hand-cooked fish and chips,” said Mr Phillips, owner of a Colchester chip shop. “But if people want soggy, button-pressed fish, good luck to them.”

However, some passengers are eager to give it a try. “I don’t care how it works, as long as it’s hot and covered in salt,” said one commuter. “If I can grab fish and chips before a delayed train, I’m all for it.”

The first machine will be installed near the main ticket office, with a contactless payment system and a built-in napkin dispenser. If successful, Greater Anglia plans to roll out similar machines at other stations across the network.