County Councillors want more answers from Network Rail

COUNCILLORS want more answers from Network Rail on issues such as bridge maintenance, fly-tipping and flood defence.

Representatives from Network Rail’s Western and Wales Routes attended a meeting of the Environment Scrutiny Committee following concerns raised by members.

They gave a presentation on the remit and responsibilities of Network Rail in relation to fly-tipping, graffiti, bridge maintenance, road surfaces at level crossings, safety issues caused by coastal erosion and flood defence.

The committee was told that Network Rail was responsible for 900 miles of track in Wales alone and that fly-tipping and litter clearance cost the company £2.3 million a year to remove.

Robin Basu, community relations manager for the Western and Wales Routes, said barrier crossings were inspected every seven to 13 weeks; and that bridges received a visual inspection every year and a more detailed examination every six years.

In relation to flood defence, Network Rail spent £250 million nationally on prioritised drainage work.

Members asked a number of questions specific to Carmarthenshire from the uneven road surface at the crossing in Pontyates, concerns about coastal erosion at St Ishmael to how many incidents of graffiti had been removed from bridges.

However, Mr Basu and his colleague Samantha Rivers were unable to answer the questions as they did not have this level of information with them.

Cllr Sian Thomas said: “I haven’t had an answer to any of the questions I’ve asked, we wanted an update on your current work programme for Carmarthenshire but we haven’t had it.”

Mr Basu apologised and assured members he would get the information to them as soon as possible: “Unfortunately, we do not have this information available at this time but I give you my assurance that I will get it for you.”

He said he hoped their attendance at the meeting would be the start of ongoing dialogue between Network Rail and the local authority.

The committee thanked the pair for attending the meeting.