Russell Eynon, owner of Willenhall-based Arx Apparel and PPE, is demanding £260,720 in compensation amid ongoing financial hardship linked to disruption caused by the development of a new railway station. The business, situated on Bilston Street just north of the construction site, has faced significant challenges during what Russell describes as a “two-year battle” with Kier Transportation, the firm overseeing the railway project.
Taking over the apparel company in 2021, Russell was initially optimistic about its strong local reputation and community involvement. However, complications arose after parts of his property were requisitioned to make way for the station. Initially, officers from the original contractor, Buckingham Group, promised compensation—but the company’s collapse in early 2023 left those arrangements unresolved.
Attempts to secure compensation from Kier Transportation were slow and insufficient. Although some payment agreements were eventually made, the funds were quickly absorbed by outstanding supplier bills and operational costs. With working capital depleted by late 2023, Russell was forced to prioritize staff wages over supplier invoices, resulting in the loss of supplier support. This led to a drastic reduction in orders and forced layoffs of two-thirds of Arx Apparel’s staff, with Russell’s elderly mother even stepping in voluntarily to help.
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Visible construction obstacles outside the premises have further discouraged customers, making it appear as if the business is closed. The combination of lost orders, fractured supplier relationships, and diminished reputation has created what Russell calls a “slow and painful death” for the company. The mental toll has been severe, with Russell describing moments of despair and serious health struggles throughout 2024.
Insolvency was declared as the company’s monthly profits shrank drastically—2025’s profits are less than a quarter of those in 2023. Consequently, both Arx Apparel and Russell’s second business, Breakwells Paints in Leamore, have entered liquidation.
Russell’s compensation claim covers lost margins, rent on unusable premises, liquidation costs, loans, and personal insolvency debts, deducting any compensation previously received. He stresses that this sum is solely to clear debts and restore his businesses' reputations, not for profit.
Reflecting on his situation, Russell said: “I was paying wages out of credit cards, which are now maxed out. I can’t get any further credit. I’ve got nothing. I dread the day when I wake up.”
Representatives from Transport for West Midlands acknowledged the disruption caused by the station development and stated that compensation had been paid in good faith, based on assessments of impact at the time. They noted that commercial compensation responsibility lies with the contractor and that Mr. Eynon’s concerns have been forwarded accordingly.
Kier’s spokesperson affirmed their commitment to working with local businesses and confirmed an agreed compensation amount had been paid to affected property owners, including Russell.