The improved embankments and cuttings are located on a branch of the West Coast main line, one of the most important railway corridors in the country.
Large stretches of sloped lineside have been re-profiled with new stone to make it more stable, and slope gradients have been reduced.
More than 11,000 tonnes of earth was removed during the protection project and 19,000 tonnes of new stone was laid.
Because of the steep locations, specialist spider excavators have been used to carry out the work, namely the Menzi Muck M545, supplied by Kelly Earthmoving. Rather than tracks, the vehicle manoeuvres on rubber tyres located at the ends of four hydraulically-supported legs. A telescoping boom extends the reach of the machine’s bucket.
Sole UK and Ireland dealer of the Swiss-made machines is Exc@v8 of Kendal.