Freddie van Mierlo MP Secures Action on Litter Along Regatta Line

Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame has welcomed a commitment from Network Rail to clear litter along the Regatta Line (Henley Branch Line), following concerns he raised about the condition of the trackside environment approaching Henley station.

In a letter sent on 14 April, Freddie highlighted the accumulation of litter along a visible stretch of the line, including areas behind local workplaces and near well-used pedestrian routes. He noted that the issue is particularly apparent to passengers arriving into Henley-on-Thames and raised concerns about the impact on the town’s appearance, especially ahead of the busy summer season.

The letter also drew attention to the efforts of local volunteers to keep the town clean, and the limitations they face in accessing railway land, as well as the potential operational risks associated with trackside litter.

In response, Network Rail confirmed that it has asked its local team to arrange for the litter to be removed as soon as possible and will provide further information on cleaning schedules.

Freddie van Mierlo MP said:

“I’m grateful to Network Rail for their prompt response and for agreeing to take action to address unsightly litter. Work previously done to reduce foliage revealed a range of items from traffic cones to beer cans and crisp packets, all of which were left uncleared"

“The Regatta Line is an important gateway into Henley, and it’s right that the approach to the town reflects the pride that residents and local businesses take in the area. ”

“Residents work hard to keep the town looking clean and tidy so it's only right that areas that can't be accessed are cleared by the responsible body, in this case Network Rail.”

"I look forward to seeing this work carried out and to continuing engagement on how the line is maintained in future.”