BRUNNER Mond has turned to the government as it bids to quieten noisy freight trains.

The firm has asked for a grant to help buy a £9 million set of wagons which would reduce noise and vibrations from trains travelling to its Winnington plant.

If the grant is approved, the wagons could be rolling by next year.

"We hope for approval of our grant application to enable us to put in place a scheme which will cause considerably less noise and vibration than occurs today," said a Brunner Mond spokesman.

The move follows a joint investigation by the chemical company, rolling stock owner EWS and Railtrack.

The inquiry concluded that current noise and vibration levels aren't big enough to damage property and that changes to existing rolling stock might not improve things.

"In the meantime we will continue to monitor the situation and do our best to address any further issues which are raised by the local community," added the spokesman.

The news has pleased members of Castle Residents Against Freight Trauma. They've been campaigning for quieter trains for the past 12 months. CRAFT's Stuart Smith said: "We would welcome the grant, if the application is successful. We have heard they are thinking of buying the rolling stock which is currently carrying gravel to Manchester Airport's second runway. That might fit the bill."

Mr Smith also praised the work of MP Martin Bell, who has been instrumental in bringing about talks between all the parties. "He deserves a lot of credit," said Mr Smith. "His work has been very positive."

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