Network Rail and Natural Resource Wales (NRW) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), solidifying their commitment to working more closely together to secure a greener future for the railway in Wales.
The MoU, which is typically renewed every five years, reinforces the two organisations' shared goal of driving environmental sustainability for the benefit of communities, creating a more resilient railway by being better prepared to combat nature and climate emergencies, and promoting responsible practices across the route's rail infrastructure.
Clare Pillman, chief executive of Natural Resources Wales said: “We are very pleased to be building on the collaborative partnership that already exists with Network Rail by signing this memorandum.
“When organisations work together, we can do more. So this agreement means the environment and rail users all benefit.
“The State of Natural Resources Report 2020 emphasised that different organisations need to collaborate to improve the resilience of our environment, particularly as we reimagine the transport system, and this partnership puts this principle into practice.”
The two organisations have already worked together on a number of projects to reduce flood risk, protect habitats, manage land, and better plan projects. For example, they worked together to excavate more than 30,000 tonnes of fuel-soaked soil following a derailment in Carmarthenshire in 2020. This prevented lasting environmental impact and protected the local landscape.
Other significant schemes that the two organisations are working on together include:
- Barmouth Viaduct renewal: Network Rail is undertaking a significant renewal to the listed structure over the Mawddach estuary. NRW is working with Network Rail to ensure that the required works to the viaduct are completed without adversely impacting the delicate ecology of the SSSI Mawddach Estuary.
- Dovey junction Structures renewal: Network Rail is delivering a bridge renewal which spans the Dovey estuary. NRW is working with Network Rail to ensure that the works are carried out in a way that minimizes the impact on the local environment.
Nick Millington, Wales and Border route director at Network Rail said: “By combining the expertise, knowledge, and resources of our two organisations in this way, we’re able to work in a more time efficient, cost-effective, safe and sustainable way - creating a positive and lasting impact on the environment, whilst improving rail links for passengers.
“The importance of this collaboration has been demonstrated time and time again over the years, and we’re very pleased to be renewing our joint commitment to achieving a more sustainable and ecologically responsible approach to the way we work.”
Photo Credit:Network Rail
Video Credit; Network Rail
