Overview
Environmental Forestry UK Ltd (EFL) successfully completed the removal of an Ash tree located on the edge of a steep cutting near Bristol Temple Meads Station. The tree, suffering from Ash dieback and positioned above the main railway line into Bristol, was condemned by Network Rail and a third-party consultative arborist. EFL obtained permission from the council to proceed with the removal and implemented a meticulous plan to ensure the safe and efficient execution of the project.
Challenges
Given the tree’s condition and precarious location, it presented inherent risks that required careful consideration. EFL explored various options and concluded that constructing scaffold around the tree’s base, including a cantilevered section extending 2.5m over the crest of the cutting, would be the safest approach. To remove the tree, EFL relied on their most experienced climber and Director, Patrick Hayes, due to the complexity of the task.
TRS Scaffolding faced significant challenges working in one of the most inaccessible cuttings on the railway infrastructure. Approximately 5 tonnes of scaffold equipment had to be transported through a landowner’s property and then along a flat area at the top of the cutting, covering approximately 100m. This required extensive liaison and negotiation with the landowner to secure access for an eight-week period. This involved the installation of edge protection, temporary walkway matting, and spotless reinstatement upon project completion.
Project Execution
EFL used a combination of daytime running preparations shifts, night-time weekend possession shifts, and line blockages during daylight hours to facilitate the tree’s removal. This involved careful coordination and scheduling to minimize disruption to railway operations. EFL used its trusted approved supplier, TRS Scaffolding, to carry out the scaffold construction. TRS demonstrated exceptional professionalism, delivering accurate programming, flawlessly executing the works.
Scaffold Installation Challenges
Key Figures:
- Total Person Days: 143
- Scaffold Delivery and Preparation: 4 scaffolders over 5 days to deliver and prepare the scaffold.
- Scaffold Installation: 8 scaffolders over 3 possession shifts
- Scaffold Removal: 4 scaffolders over 5 days
- Line Blocks: 5 vegetation staff over 4 line block shifts
- Weekend Possessions: 5 weekend possessions
- Reinstatement: 3 staff over 4 days
Conclusion
Through meticulous planning, coordination with stakeholders, and the expertise of their team, Environmental Forestry UK Ltd (EFL) successfully completed the challenging task of removing an Ash tree near Bristol Temple Meads Station. The collaboration with TRS Scaffolding ensured the safe installation and removal of the scaffold in an inaccessible area. EFL’s commitment to safety and efficiency was demonstrated throughout the project, resulting in a successful outcome for all parties involved.
