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Friday 10 Nov 2006

NETWORK RAIL MAKES BIRMINGHAM MORE A-TRACK-TIVE

Region & Route:

Commuters and visitors will soon enjoy a brighter welcome to Birmingham as Network Rail starts a campaign to clean up the railway lines on key routes into the city.

Last week a Network Rail maintenance team kicked off the project by removing graffiti and around 30 tonnes of fly-tipped rubbish from the Snow Hill line between Birmingham Moor Street and Bordesley. Jim Syddall, Network Rail’s Territory Maintenance Director said: “As the owner and operator of Britain’s rail network, we take our responsibilities for looking after the environment very seriously. Sadly, we are well practised in clearing up graffiti and rubbish. This operation alone cost £15,000, money that we would rather spend in other ways to improve the railway for passengers. This is why we urge anyone who witnesses instances of railway crime or vandalism to contact the British Transport Police on 0800 405040.” Councillor Neil Eustace, Chair of the Public Protection Committee at Birmingham City Council, added: “The council is committed, through its environmental health team, to seek prosecution of anyone linked to fly tipping. We look forward to working in partnership with Network Rail and the British Transport Police in order to ensure Birmingham is a clean, green and safe city for all.” Following the project to clean up the Snow Hill route, Network Rail will start tackling overgrown vegetation, graffiti and fly tipping on the eastern approach to Birmingham New Street. The project will take several months and will not involve any disruption to train services.