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Monday 20 Mar 2006

RAILWAY STATION LITTER LOUTS PUT OUT WITH THE TRASH

Region & Route:

| Southern

Network Rail’s fight to rid West Norwood station of litter and fly-tipping was given a major boost today with the backing of London Assembly Member Val Shawcross and Lambeth Cllr Jackie Meldrum. Cllr Meldrum and Val Shawcross’ support follows an extensive clean-up of the station carried out on Friday by Network Rail’s lineside maintenance teams. In total some 72 bags of litter were collected and fly-tipping including a fridge, a child’s pram and even a sofa was removed from the station site. Network Rail’s Territory Maintenance Director David Wilks said: “We are determined to clamp down on litter and fly-tipping which creates an eyesore that affects rail passengers, staff and local people alike. This work has made a huge improvement to the station area and I am delighted with the support we have received in our fight to keep this area clean.” Val Shawcross, London Assembly Member for Lambeth and Southwark, said: “I am grateful to Network Rail for responding to our clean-up plea. West Norwood is an important local station and an accumulation of litter and fly tipping give a bad message to passengers. It also adds to the fear of crime and encourages vandalism. I hope that Network Rail and Southern Railways will work together in the future to keep this station looking smart and tidy.” Cllr Jackie Meldrum said: “Local people will be very happy now this area has been cleaned up and I thank Network Rail for the improvements this work has made to the station. There are no excuses for dumping rubbish in public places so I hope this clean-up work sends out a clear message that litter and fly-tipping will not be tolerated.” Fly tipping can be reported confidentially to the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40.  Network Rail’s message to local people is clear: report it, don’t ignore it.