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Monday 29 Mar 2010

RAIL CLEAN UP WORK GETS BARRY TIDY

Region & Route:

Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

Network Rail has sent a clean-up squad to clear away masses of rubbish illegally dumped near to Barry railway station over the weekend. 

The effort has helped to spruce-up the surroundings of the town’s gateway in time for summer, when Barry Island becomes busy with tourists. 

The land near to Barry station was blighted by all sorts of litter, including a car bumper, beer cans, crisp wrappers and takeaway boxes.  The litter was not only an eyesore but could also cause problems to the operation of the railway. 

The two-day operation saw the team removed a large skip of litter and made the extra efforts to clear away unsightly weeds.

Jack Hitchcock, western maintenance director for Network Rail, said: “There is a big problem with littering in this area and this type of behaviour is inconsiderate. Not only is it an eyesore, it may also encourage vermin onto the railway embankment and the surrounding areas. 

“This clean-up will help make a massive difference to the area, making it more welcoming and greatly improve the environment for the community. After everyone’s hard work we hope the area remains clean and tidy, and we will be working closely with the council to stamp out this problem.”

Fly-tipping on the railway is illegal and carries a fine of up to £1000.  Each year Network Rail spends large amounts of money removing fly-tipped rubbish and litter from railway property – money that could otherwise be invested in improving the railway.