News story

6th March 2004

MP Wins "Stay of Execution" for Trees Threatened by Network Rail
 

Following pressure today from Northavon MP Steve Webb, Network Rail chiefs have agreed to delay by a week their plans to commence large scale removal of trees and vegetation alongside the rail track at Coalpit Heath. The MP has worked closely with local councillor Alan Bracey and has been contacted by large numbers of local residents who are unhappy about the way Network Rail have failed to consult local people.

Now the MP has won an assurance that no work will begin until a meeting has been held at the MP’s office between Network Rail chiefs, local councillors and council officials. That meeting is expected to take place next Friday (12th March).

He has already tabled written questions in Parliament to the Secretary of State for Transport asking him to investigate Network Rail’s actions and has written to the Chief Executive of Network Rail raising the concerns of local people.

Commenting on the delay, Steve Webb said:

“I am pleased that Network Rail have agreed to my request to delay the start of these works so that we can have a proper dialogue about what needs to be done. People accept that the safety of the railway has to be maintained and that some works may be necessary, but the way Network Rail has gone about this has been totally unacceptable.

"Local people have a right to explanations and involvement instead of being presented with a fait accompli. I hope that the meeting that I have arranged will be a step forward”.