For the next three years, Amey, a provider of full life-cycle engineering, operations and decarbonisation solutions for the UK, has been awarded a place on the Network Rail Wales and Western Ecology Framework.

This means that across the network, Amey will deliver advisory services to ensure there are no missed opportunities and that compliance is in place to enable Network Rail to meet its targets by 2035.

In further detail, some of their roles will include carrying out protected species surveys, mapping habitats, creating management plans, managing Biodiversity Net Gain metrics, and assessing areas of conservation value.

The combined knowledge will allow easier navigation of essential surveys, including bridge repairs and the necessary bat licensing requirements. The approach to emergency works and landslide work, in relation to any protected species, will also be discussed within the framework.

Additionally, a digital approach will be used across the network, which means that surveys are supported and mapped much more easily and accurately.

Collaborations on the horizon include working with Network Rail on improvement schemes such as their resilience projects.

This isn’t the first time Amey has worked with Network Rail, so this partnership has a head start on being successful.

“We are pleased to announce our appointment to Network Rail’s Wales and Western Ecology Framework. We recognise the importance of biodiversity across strategic networks, and we are committed to leveraging our expertise and resources to create a more nature-positive and resilient future

“This framework appointment highlights our commitment to delivering ecology advisory services, and we are very much looking forward to supporting Network Rail in managing and enhancing biodiversity across the rail network.”

Colin Wood, Managing Director for Amey