‘Vital’ bush trimming work to take place on Cheshire rail line

Network Rail is set to start its woodland management work this month to improve the safety and reliability of the railway, including in Dutton, Warrington, Runcorn, Widnes, and Ditton.

The year-long project will involve removing overgrowth along an eight-mile stretch of track and reducing or removing any trees within striking distance of trains or overhead line equipment.

Network Rail says the work is ‘crucial’ for delivering the safe and smooth operation of train services for passengers, especially following recent incidents where fallen trees and branches disrupted the railway and caused delays.

The work will take place primarily during weekday daytime hours, with some night shifts required for safety reasons when trains are not in operation.

Residents will be notified well in advance of any night-time work, with a drop-in session to be held on Thursday, September 12, between 4pm and 7pm at Grangeway Community Centre in Runcorn.

Network Rail’s project team will be available to answer questions and provide more information about the work.

Alex Hosking, maintenance protection co-ordinator at Network Rail, said: “We appreciate the patience and understanding of the community while this important work takes place.

“These measures are vital for preventing future incidents and helping trains operate safely without interruptions.

“We have seen first-hand the risks that unmanaged vegetation can cause, with fallen trees resulting in significant delays and potential hazards for both passengers and staff.”

Before the work begins, ecological surveys have been carried out to ensure no protected species or habitats are disturbed.

Ongoing daily checks will be conducted, and any findings of nesting birds or protected species will mean appropriate safeguards, such as exclusion zones put in place.

Network Rail says it is committed to preserving wildlife where possible by leaving logs and branches to create habitat piles or removing debris from the site.