Mortlake residents call on Network Rail to build soundproofed wall by tracks

People living in South Worple Way, which runs parallel to Network Rail’s train tracks in Mortlake, are pleading with the rail operator to build a soundproofed wall when work begins to replace the current one.

But Network Rail is going full steam ahead with a plan to install “standard fencing” to prevent access to the railway line.

Roy Blacklock, who has lived opposite the tracks for 47 years, fears the change will bring about sleepless nights - as trains run until about 2am or 3am and start up again at 5am.

The 68-year-old said: “They are proposing to put in their green metal posts which will mean we can hear the railway more.

“I certainly think if they do put it in it would get very noisy.

“But not only that, your property is affected - if it starts to shake, the house would start to get cracks.”

MP for Richmond Park, Susan Kramer, has jumped on board their campaign to derail the operator’s current train of thought.

“Living close to the railway shouldn’t mean people’s lives are constantly disturbed,” she said.

“The existing barrier fence between the railway line and houses is crumbling concrete and badly needs replacing.

“I have called on Network Rail to replace it with a proper noise dampening fence.”

Roy Blacklock and friends survey crumbling wall

However, a spokesman for the rail operator said “standard fencing” would be used to mark the boundary.

He explained: “The wall alongside the railway on South Worple Way needs replacing for safety reasons as a result of its age and being repeatedly struck by road vehicles.

“We will do what we can to help blend the fence in with its surroundings.

“We are also in discussions with Richmond borough council about measures to deter large vehicles from turning in South Worple Way, which we hope will reduce damage to the boundary in the future.”

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