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Thursday 6 Feb 2025

Glow up for old railway line in Preston thanks to community groups

Region & Route:

North West & Central

| North West & Central: North West

Network Rail is working with community groups to clean up an area in Preston that has been blighted by fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

It comes after several tonnes of household rubbish, a selection of old sofas, mattresses and bikes have been illegally deposited along the disused Preston to Longridge railway line near Skeffington Road in Deepdale.

The area was once a section of railway but has been used as a dumping ground by some local residents and businesses, prompting anger and frustration from the community.  

But now, Network Rail is working with community groups to remove rubbish and prune back trees and brambles so it can be a more positive space.

The work is expected to take up to a year to complete and will focus on removing waste, pruning back trees and other vegetation and working with the community to use the area in a more respectful way.

Nationally, millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is spent clearing up after criminal dumpers each year. And Network Rail is warning those found to be at fault could face criminal prosecutions.

Ian Croucher, Lancashire maintenance protection coordinator from Network Rail, said: “It has been heartbreaking to see this old railway line being targeted by waste criminals. But now, thanks to the local community we have a plan to clear up the site so it can be used in a more positive way. Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is a health and environmental hazard. Anyone who sees fly-tipping happening on the railway should immediately contact the British Transport Police.”

Councillor Freddie Bailey, cabinet member for environment and community safety at Preston City Council, said: “It's sad and disappointing that we find situations at some locations where people feel it's okay to just dump their waste. We’re grateful for the work of community groups in helping to keep Preston tidy, and the work taking place at this site is already making an impact.

 “Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is unpleasant for people and a hazard for wildlife. Fly-tipping and littering are ultimately criminal and anti-social acts.

“Dumping rubbish anywhere creates an eyesore and the clear-up costs could be better spent elsewhere, either for private landowners or taxpayers if it’s the Council footing the bill.

“We continue to work with Network Rail combining our many resources to prevent fly tipping and to ensure the area is nicer for everyone.”

For more information on how we’re working to keep the railway and our surrounding land tidy please visit Litter and fly-tipping - Network Rail.