Since the damage caused by heavy storms in 2014 which resulted in an eight-week closure of the railway between Exeter and Newton Abbot, Network Rail has been developing plans to improve the resilience of the railway. The railway is a vital artery, which connects communities, businesses and visitors the South West with the rest of the UK.
As part of Network Rail’s Southwest Rail Resilience Programme work is progressing well on the construction of a new rockfall shelter at the northern end of Parson’s Tunnel, between Dawlish and Holcombe.
Main contractor Morgan Sindall Infrastructure have appointed Metrail Construction to carry out the important task of waterproofing the new structure. The design of the new rockfall shelter is open-sided to allow rail passengers to enjoy the views of the beautiful south west coastline. It will be covered by a cushioning material to absorb the impact of any rockfalls.
Metrail’s work involves laying nearly of 1,200m2 of HYTEC waterproofing membrane over a layer of Geo1000 geotextile. HYTEC is supplied by GCP (formerly Stirling Lloyd) and is a loose laid, flexible, polypropylene sheet waterproofing membrane. Joints in the membrane are completed by heat welding.
Metrail is one of a limited number of companies licensed to supply and instal GCP products including the Eliminator spray waterproofing system, Sentinel bridge deck expansion joints and the HYTEC waterproofing membrane.
Metrail MD Martyn Sherwood commented
“We have many years experience of rail related maintenance work and we are delighted to have been selected to play our part in this important contract to ensure the resilience of the railway line for future generations”
