Network Rail has joined forces with the King’s Trust to transform a neglected piece of railway land in Preston into a thriving community space. The area, near Skeffington Road in Deepdale, had long been plagued by fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour but is now showing signs of renewal thanks to volunteers and community groups.

The disused Preston to Longridge railway line had previously seen several tonnes of household rubbish dumped illegally, including old sofas, mattresses, and bicycles, which caused anger among local residents. In response, local groups have stepped in to help clear the site and restore it.

The King’s Trust Preston Central Team 88 has been actively involved in litter picking, trimming brambles, removing weeds, and creating a new flower bed complete with shrubs. So far, volunteers have cleared 70 tonnes of waste over a 900-metre stretch of the old railway line – roughly the weight of five train carriages, three elephants, or a small aircraft.

Ian Croucher, Lancashire maintenance protection coordinator for Network Rail, said: “It has been heartbreaking to see this old railway line being targeted by waste criminals. But now, thanks to the enthusiasm and hard work of community groups, we can really see that it’s starting to take shape to be a positive space for the future. We hate to see fly-tipping happening on the railway and anyone who spots it should immediately contact the British Transport Police.”

Anji Hesketh, Team Leader at the King’s Trust, added: “The King’s Trust team at Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service are always looking for meaningful projects to support, and this one has been especially rewarding. The team thoroughly enjoyed working with Andy and are proud to have contributed to the long-term goal of developing a valuable community space.”

Network Rail has also highlighted the wider costs of fly-tipping, noting that millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is spent nationally each year clearing up after criminal dumpers. Those caught illegally dumping waste on railway land could face criminal prosecution.

Network Rail