Managing Earthworks In A Changing Environment
This image shows the train derailment at Shap at 06:10 on Monday.
The BBC and others were talking about the cause of the derailment being a landslide.
So it was perhaps appropriate that the latest edition of Rail Engineer had a sponsorsed feature with a title of Managing Earthworks In A Changing Environment.
It is well-worth a full read.

Considering global warming it would be a good idea to increase the standard for rainfall to 1 in 10,000 storm event. As a project manager for rehabilitating a tailings dam in Ireland the authorities wanted this and we complied.
Due to the lack of topsoil we hydro-seeded the clay embankments with a mixture of wild flower seeds and nutrients a second application was required for complete coverage. An additional advantage is that it will be difficult for trees to grow in this situation thus saving maintenance.
By the way on completion the tailings dam was classified as a nature reserve.
Comment by Ben Oldfield | November 5, 2025 |
Looks like there were winners all round on that project.
Comment by AnonW | November 5, 2025 |