Anger as noisy riverside fence 'obliterates' views

Changes will be made to a train station's fence near an estuary after complaints from residents.

Network Rail replaced the panels in Starcross in April after the previous fence deteriorated on the platform next to the River Exe.

But people in the Devon village have raised concerns about safety, that the panels block the view of the river as it heads out to the English Channel and a disturbing whistling sound being caused when wind blows through the panels.

Following the feedback, Network Rail said it had reviewed the design and would carry out additional work at the station.

Stuart Greenslade, who lives opposite the station, said he felt the new panels had created a hazard as he had witnessed children climbing them on two separate occasions.

He added the view for people living near the station had been ruined.

Greenslade said: "They look quite utilitarian and there's been no thought given to the view.

"We used to have a lovely view here and it's gradually being obliterated."

Fellow resident Hugh Studder said he did not think the design was suitable for the area.

"It's very beautiful here and in other areas, that [design] would look superb, but I don't believe it does here," he said.

"I'm not wishing to be corny or anything, but I do find it quite offensive."

Georgina Vye agreed the panels should be removed.

"They should put something along the lines of what was there originally which is safer and also doesn't have the noise pollution that we've got from this fence at the moment," she added.

Network Rail said it understood the concerns that had been raised locally.

It said the new panels were stronger and more durable than the previous fence, but alterations would be made.

"The infill panels will be brought forward so that they sit flush with the posts and a fine mesh will be installed within those sections to reduce the visual impact of these changes," a spokesperson said.

"In response to the concerns raised, this work will begin as soon as possible to maintain the safety of the station for everyone."

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