Tranche 2 Earthworks Projects
Client: Network Rail - Location: Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire
Services Used
Species Found
Badger
Route-Wide Ecological Assessments
Whitcher Wildlife Ltd has worked closely with Network Rail to deliver a series of Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) across a number of ecologically sensitive sites extending through south Nottinghamshire and into northern Leicestershire. These assessments were undertaken in advance of major proposed earthworks and infrastructure improvement programmes scheduled for delivery throughout 2026. The PEAs provided a robust baseline understanding of ecological constraints along the route, allowing potential risks to be identified early and appropriately planned for.
Badger Mitigation & Ecological Support
Badger setts were recorded at several of the sites, requiring carefully considered mitigation to enable the works to proceed while maintaining compliance with ecological legislation and safeguarding the long-term integrity of the railway. Proposed mitigation measures include the creation of artificial setts, licenced exclusion works and phased implementation to minimise disturbance. Whitcher Wildlife Ltd will continue to work closely with Network Rail and the appointed delivery contractor to provide ongoing ecological support, ensuring that mitigation is implemented effectively and that both protected species and the safe operation of the railway are secured over the long term.