Scour Protection – Mirfield, West Yorkshire

CML were commissioned by Network Rail to undertake scour mitigation works to Underbridge MVN2/196 as part of a package of scour works. Before any vegetation clearance commenced, a visual inspection was undertaken, specifically focusing on nesting birds, in compliance with the Network Rail Route Vegetation Management Policy. De-vegetation works were then carried out to clear an access route for plant and operatives to the compound area and worksite from the adjacent Mirfield Station car park.

An access ramp was then constructed to facilitate the transportation of materials and plant to the worksite. The access ramp was located adjacent to the railway infrastructure and extended across third-party land, with an approximate gradient of 1 in 5. Prior to the commencement of any work, a CAT scan survey was conducted, and buried services records were examined to determine the presence of any services in the vicinity of the bank.

The Rock Armour scour protection works then commenced in the River Calder, under Bridge 196 with all plant in the vicinity of the watercourse running on bio-oil. Daily checks were conducted on all plant to ensure there were no leaks before entering the watercourse.

A 14t excavator was used to remove bed material in sections not exceeding 3m² around the piers. Rock armour was then placed in line with the design.