CAN was brought in to work alongside the piling contractor to carry out emergency stabilisation works to a failing railway embankment, installing 170 duplex-coated R38 passive ground anchors, acting as tie backs to a new sheet pile wall.

The site itself had restricted access for plant and materials as it meant crossing live rail lines, along with being located just above the River Stour estuary nature reserve.

Working with the local wildlife trust and the Environment Agency, CAN developed methods of working to ensure that the stringent environmental constraints were met.

Plant and material were moved onto site by creating temporary roadways across fields, with a 50T crane being utilised to lift equipment and materials over the railway and onto the site.

Ground conditions and the design were proved as the works proceeded with CAN carrying out site testing of hollow bar anchors.

The quick response and efficient working methods of all involved in the project prevented further deterioration of the slope meaning that the rail line could remain open.

Duration:       10 weeks

Client:             Kier Rail

Location:       Copperas Wood Embankment, Harwich, Essex