Network Rail is working alongside Corsham Town Council and Wiltshire Council to try and stop fly-tipping at the Potley Lane aqueduct in Corsham.

The aqueduct was installed in 2017 as part of essential upgrade work to prepare the line for electrification. It is at risk of flooding due to the illegal dumping of rubbish.

Items which have washed into the aqueduct after heavy rain includes a Christmas tree, a car tyre, a plastic bin as well as other household waste.

The build-up of debris is a significant risk to the flooding of the railway line below. This could cause disruption to train services.

What did the officials say?

Alastair Mackay, Environmental Manager from Network Rail, said: “The aqueduct was installed as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan as we continue to improve the railway and passenger journeys.

“The fly-tipping causes a flood risk, so we have teamed up with Corsham Town Council and Wiltshire Council to reduce fly-tipping and decrease the risk of flooding on the railway and to other users downstream.”

Bridget Wayman, cabinet member for highways at Wiltshire Council explained: “We have a zero-tolerance policy to fly-tipping in Wiltshire. We won’t hesitate to fine or prosecute offenders when we catch them.

“I find it a real shame that people resort to driving to remote spots within this beautiful county to dump items when they can go directly to one of our household recycling centres and dispose of it properly. Not only does it blight the countryside, it can also cause other issues such as flooding and health concerns”.

Members of the public can report fly-tipping anonymously by visiting the Wiltshire Council website or calling 0300 456 100.

• Visit the Network Rail website
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