Y Bell
GBNetwork Rail Tree Felling Network Rail have felled a number of trees alongside the rail embankment in SE12 over the Easter holidays, despite it being nesting season and other animals producing young, such as fox cubs. Neighbours were not informed about the tree felling, only a notice of essential works to secure the embankment. I believe that Network Rail have a commitment to 'managing lineside as an asset, improving communication with nearby communities and leading cultural change within Network Rail around valuing nature and the environment'. According to Network Rail's response to the Varley report, there is 'a suite of template notification letters and leaflets to ensure that lineside neighbours and stakeholders are kept updated both before and after work takes place to manage vegetation on the railway. Examples of best practice communication ... have been produced.' These may well have been 'shared with the route teams [to] set a clear and consistent standard for vegetation management communications' but they certainly haven't been employed here. Not only were there bats, foxes, birds and other wildlife living in and around these trees, but the view from several houses on the street now goes straight through to the depot, which will be to the serious detriment of residents' wellbeing. I can't imagine the mindset that would deem it appropriate to undertake this kind of work without any consultation or at the very least notification of such an extreme step. A number of neighbours have complained to the Network Rail executive, including the Biodiversity Manager and PR Manager, we were informed the trees were either dead or dying, yet photos taken at the time show healthy trees being felled. We have also contacted our local MP and Councillor. Trees are still being felled this week and we are yet to get a satisfactory answer as to how this devasting damage to this rich habitat will be offset. Ironically Lewisham Council are proposing to make this a nature trail. NOT GOOD ENOUGH!
Emma Slater
GBCrossing closure at Cononley They have closed a well-used pedestrian rail crossing and RIGHT OF WAY at Cononley because the horn on one of the LNER trains is not loud enough. It's been shut since November 2020, now extended to December 2021 and the alternative route is dangerous. Now making excuses about cutting back vegetation to improve sighting? - not good enough, sort the train out and open the crossing NOW. If you're not careful people will start to think you just want an excuse to close the crossing forever.
Dave Mitch
GBI worked fort Network rail for 30 years… I worked fort Network rail for 30 years learnt experience from ground up. Ex forces employees run a jumped up company highly payed individuals. steer clear as these individuals would not get jobs any where else. corruption at the highest level. Government should be made accountable for paying 100k a year to people that are not able to get £10 an hour outside of the industry. constantly making cock ups but not being made accountable.
EMP
GBWe had a situation when my Grandaughter… We had a situation when my Grandaughter caught an incorrect train and ended up at New St Station, Birmingham. She was taken to the ticket office by a wonderful lady who intended to purchase my Grandaughter a ticket and to take her to the correct train. At the ticket office the absolute star named Vinne took control of the situation. He telephoned me to reassure me and even arranged a taxi to get her home safely !! This man is an absolute star!!! Such a helpful man, even calling to make sure that she had arrived home safely. Such kindness from the lady on the train and then Vinne. I am so impressed and grateful, thank you so so much. Excellent!
Jock Tamson
GBHorrible Big Bush Complained many times to Network Rail about overgrown vegetation climbing and penetrating our bordering wall. Cracks are appearing but still Network Rail ignore this problem. From their TrustPilot rating it looks like this review won't make any difference. Let's hope the wall doesn't fall down onto the track. Concern from Woodside, Aberdeen.