Rail companies sued for £5m over oil spill caused by derailment
Summary
Network Rail is suing two rail companies, DB Cargo UK and Touax Rail, for more than £5 million after a train derailment in 2020 caused a large fuel spill. The accident led to a fire, forced evacuations, and damage to protected wetlands. Network Rail claims the derailment was caused by poor maintenance of a wagon’s wheels.Key Facts
- The derailment happened near Llangennech, Carmarthenshire, in August 2020.
- Ten of the 25 wagons derailed, spilling 446,000 litres of fuel.
- About 300 people had to leave the area because of a fire caused by the fuel spill.
- 116,000 litres of fuel caught fire, while 330,000 litres leaked into protected wetlands.
- The Rail Accident Investigation Branch found the accident was caused by locked wheels due to brake defects linked to poor maintenance.
- Network Rail says Touax Rail did not properly maintain the wagons, and DB Cargo UK failed in their duty to keep them in good condition.
- The railway line was closed for six months and reopened fully nearly a year later after cleaning up 30,000 tonnes of fuel-contaminated soil.
- Network Rail expects to recover over £5 million in damages from the two companies.
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