Network Rail to clear debris from Blackhall Colliery railway embankment

Earlier this week we reported on an increase in the number of incidents of fly-tipping in our area, especially in and around some parts of Blackhall Colliery. One of these related to rubbish being tipped over the bridge onto the railway embankment behind the Navy Club (please see post dated Monday 6 February 2017 for background information).

We got in touch with Network Rail to tell them about this particular incident and to ask them to investigate further. We are pleased to report that we have received a quick response from the company to let us know that they will make arrangements to remove the debris when circumstances are more appropriate for safe clearance.

We are particularly pleased to note that they intend to undertake upgrading works to their bridge to help prevent similar incidents in future.

We have reproduced their response in full below for information:

Dear Councillor,

I refer to your recent email about fly tipping on the railway embankment at Blackhall Colliery.

Our maintenance team went to site on the 6 February to repair damaged fencing and they removed litter/debris at that location. They reported that there is historical fly tipping within a wet sheer incline which is currently inaccessible.  We will place in our workbank for a dry period and will have to recover using safety harness and specialist contractors.

It also appears that residents are tipping items over the bridge , we will be speaking to our structures team to see if the fencing can be upgraded  and affix bridge corners to try and prevent future fly tipping.

I do hope that this information is useful.

Regards