Macclesfield Borough Council barristers are to examine the responsibilities of rail operator EWS, Railtrack and Brunner Mond to solve the problem of train tremors.

"This is keeping the pressure on and forcing the companies to solve the problem," said Clr Jan Verney. At a meeting last week, councillors heard how Knutsford homes near the line had been damaged by the vibrations.

The tremors - likened to 'an earthquake' by residents - had caused one house extension to crumble and radiators to come loose from walls.

In November Clr Verney said her colleagues didn't understand the problem after they shied away from adopting similar legal action. But since then the council's efforts to find a solution has been partly thwarted by Railtrack, which is responsible for the line.

"Railtrack has repeatedly failed to respond to telephone calls or letters," said officers.

EWS have dismissed claims that the stone-laden wagons which haul limestone to Northwich-based Brunner Mond are too heavy or travel too fast.

New trucks won't been built for at least another year.

Monitoring of the vibrations will continue with special consultants being brought in to find evidence to back up 150 complaints.

Homes in Plumley and Mobberley have also been affected.

Officers want other affected authorities, including Vale Royal, Trafford and High Peak, to also take legal advice.

"Hopefully the companies will start to act at the threat of legal proceedings," said Clr Sue Kipling.

Residents concerned about their property should contact the Environmental Health department at Macclesfield Borough Council.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.