COSTLY delays to rail projects are being avoided thanks to a new Network Rail scheme to better protect endangered great crested newts.
The amphibians commonly make their home around the UK’s railway, living in drainage ditches and nearby vegetation – even hibernating under sleepers.
Previously when found on the infrastructure, teams had to down tools and call in specialist ecologists to survey the area and apply for special licences to continue before work could resume.
Network Rail said in some cases it could delay projects by weeks or even months. Now, thanks to a collaboration with the Newt Conservation Partnership and an expanded licensing approach, newt habitats are extensively mapped before work starts, with suitable homes nearby either restored or recreated with clean water ponds.
If newts are found on the railway, that habitat is there ready and waiting for the new residents to be quickly transferred to their new home, while allowing upgrade work to resume.
Railway staff are also being given special training to spot the different types of newt so they’re handled with the utmost care.
Jude Ward, Network Rail environment manager, said, “We take our responsibility to balance the needs of wildlife on the railway with our commitment to run trains safely and reliably seriously, and this new approach for newts is a perfect win win for both us and them.”
Dr Tom Tew, CEO of the NatureSpace Partnership, added, “Our partnership with Network Rail demonstrates how strategic licensing can support both infrastructure delivery and meaningful nature recovery.”
