Statement from Andrew Rosindell M.P. for Romford on Network Rail's works management programme in the Borough of Havering.
Andrew Rosindell M.P. for Romford has welcomed Network Rail’s commitment to working with local residents to find a resolution to the issues surrounding the railway lines between Romford to Gidea Park and from Romford to Upminster, on the ‘push and pull’ line.
On Monday (17th January) evening, Andrew chaired a meeting of local representatives to show Network Rail that local people will not stand by and watch our natural environment be destroyed, without a fight!
Andrew Rosindell M.P. said:
“I was shocked and disappointed that contractors continued work on trees which included pruning and even some felling of trees along the railway lines from Romford on the ‘push and pull’ line, after Network Rail had assured me no work would take place until after the meeting on Monday evening.
Although I was angered by those developments, I must praise Network Rail’s public affairs team who swiftly dealt with the matter and profusely apologised for the tragic miscommunication.
However, there is clear evidence that communication needs to be better between Network Rail and their contractors working in the area as we cannot tolerate more mishaps like this again, especially when it is our nature, wildlife and local heritage that is at stake.
I am pleased after I made it clear that the decimation of trees is something I would not tolerate, that Network Rail engaged in constructive discussions, including a Zoom meeting with elected representatives, residents and myself on Monday.
They have subsequently agreed to pause all work on the railway lines, for at least one week, until they have consulted with residents in the affected areas and further spoken with local Councillors in the areas affected.
This is a welcome outcome as we now have time to work with Network Rail to minimise the amount of destruction and work done on our trees, vegetation and natural habitats which border the railway.
It was welcome to hear that Network Rail has committed to looking into re-planting some trees along the line, specifically looking into planting species that pose less of a threat to the railway.
I was made aware of re-planting schemes in other areas in which Network Rail have worked with local residents to re-plant trees and vegetation which is less dangerous for the railway as well as suitable for residents and improving biodiversity in the area.
I look forward to continued co-operation with Network Rail as well as their commitment to work with residents and local Councillors alike to find the best possible solution to the situation, whilst causing the least amount of damage and ensuring the railway is safe for everyone.
I look forward to continuing to work with the local campaign group and will be hosting another meeting in due course, once Network Rail has come up with a plan and carried out a thorough consultation with local people and those of us who are elected to serve the community of Romford and Hornchurch.”
If any resident of Andrew’s constituency wishes to raise further concerns, or propose ideas that the M.P. could put forward to Network Rail, they should e-mail Andrew to [email protected] and include their name, address and contact details.
Anyone who lives beyond the River Ravensbourne at the Hornchurch end of Osborne Road (constituency boundary) towards Upminster should contact the Member of Parliament for the Hornchurch & Upminster, Mrs Julia Lopez M.P.
