Network Rail sues rail companies for over £5m following fuel spill from derailment
Network Rail has initiated legal action against DB Cargo UK and Touax Rail after a significant fuel spill in Llangennech, which occurred during a train derailment in August 2020.
By BBC News
Network Rail is pursuing legal action against DB Cargo UK and Touax Rail, seeking more than £5 million in damages due to a fuel spill resulting from a train derailment near Llangennech, Carmarthenshire, in August 2020.
The derailment involved 10 out of 25 wagons from a train, leading to the spillage of 446,000 litres of fuel. Approximately 300 people were evacuated from the area due to the ensuing blaze, which ignited 116,000 litres of fuel, while 330,000 litres leaked into nearby wetlands that are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.
In documents filed with the High Court, Network Rail alleges that the wagon involved was not maintained with reasonable care, claiming that DB Cargo breached its contractual duty to ensure proper maintenance. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) concluded in January 2022 that the derailment was caused by a set of wheels on one of the wagons locking, likely due to a brake defect linked to inadequate maintenance practices.
Network Rail has stated that it expects to recover more than £5 million in damages, although DB Cargo and Touax have yet to file their defences. A hearing for the case is anticipated to take place.
The train was transporting fuel from Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, to Theale, near Reading, at the time of the derailment. Following the incident, the railway line was closed for six months, and nearly 30,000 tonnes of fuel-soaked soil were excavated as part of the recovery efforts.
Bill Kelly, the then-Network Rail Wales route director, remarked that the recovery operation was one of the largest environmental efforts Network Rail has undertaken, stating that the derailment could have resulted in a total environmental disaster.
The RAIB's report indicated that the train was travelling at approximately 38 mph when the derailment occurred, carrying up to 75.5 tonnes of fuel. While the RAIB did not assign blame or liability, it made nine recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Network Rail and DB Cargo have declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings, while Touax has been approached for a statement.