Branch line clearance Case Study

Removing disused railway lines

Removing disused railway lines close to challenging infrastructure requires careful planning and specialised understanding. Our vegetation clearance projects at PB Forestry strike a balance between accuracy, security, and environmental responsibility. Read our blog to find out how we assisted our client in safely restoring 700m of disused branch line close to a quarry face and underground pipelines for future development.

The Challenge

As part of a project to restore the branch line, PB Forestry was tasked with clearing 700 meters of disused branch lines. The site presented several difficulties, such as hidden pipes and a steep embankment next to a quarry face, all of which needed careful safety planning to avoid infrastructure damage. The site’s accessibility to a public walkway and the dangers posed by fly-tipping and garbage were further issues. Before clearance started, complete environmental compliance was guaranteed by an ecological impact assessment conducted by qualified ecologists.

How PB Forestry Provided Solution?

PB Forestry worked closely with the client and local authorities, creating specific Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) to solve the site’s significant safety and environmental problems. Ecological surveys were carried out by the client, with the PBF team working on a detailed set of RAMS to ensure compliance. The team made sure the clearance was safe and effective by using excavators with tree shears and mulching heads, combined with robo flails. The mini-digger with shear and mulching head was used on the embankment areas.

Result

PB Forestry got rid of the site promptly and safely by using the right equipment and two specialised teams. This made it possible for the client to move forward with their railway reinstatement project without any issues and helped them submit a successful planning application to the local planning authority, ensuring that all safety and environmental requirements were satisfied.