The Waltham Forest Guardian has reported that campaigners in Walthamstow living near the Line have grown increasingly concerned over a recent increase in the frequency, length and weight of the goods trains which travel along the track in the early hours.

Network Rail has finally agreed to investigate whether these freight trains are causing structural damage to their properties.

They have said that the investigation would last for a ‘decent amount of time’ and would include installation of monitoring equipment in several properties. No indication was given of a time span.

Network Rail admitted that the number of freight trains on the line may increase in late 2013, when the London Gateway ‘super port’ opens. The campaigners are demanding that monitoring should also cover this period.

This campaign has centred on Walthamstow, so far, however the Liberal Democrats would like to know how residents are affected as the freight trains go through Leyton and Leytonstone.