Project: Somerton CCL: vegetation clearance
Client: Network Rail
Value: £220,000

Vegetation clearance was required to reduce the volume of leaf fall on the track in this high-risk area, and in order to undertake a geotechnical survey of the condition of the cutting and embankment. The site is predominantly a steep rock cutting with dense vegetation of varying age, rooted in minimal soil cover.

The safe system of works used on this site involved extensive use of T2 protections, and the use of rigid barrier fencing to allow safe access to the site whilst trains were running.

The site runs through the centre of Somerton, and UPM Tilhill liaised with landowners and local authorities to develop a sensitive working plan for the site. Careful planning and co-operation with the highways authority were required to manage the sequence of footpath closures and diversions necessary to protect the public.

When working on, or adjacent to, the cutting slopes, operatives employed rope access and fall arrest techniques to ensure safety.

UPM Tilhill also designed and implemented remedial planting to meet the wishes of both Network Rail and the local residents.