WSP to develop more consistent, data-driven approach to climate risk across the rail network

Network Rail has appointed consultant WSP to partner on a framework designed to improve the railway network’s readiness and resistance to floods and coastal erosion.

image credit: Network Rail

Climate change has led to an increase in disruption from extreme weather with 2023/24 seeing more than 1,200 incidents recorded on the network across the year. There is also an increase in the impacts of one-off storm events and the trend is only expected to get worse.

The nature of flood response in the railway industry is currently split between different regions and relies heavily on local knowledge of high-risk areas. In addition, different train operators have different rules about how they run through flood waters, which means the impact of a flood in one part of the country might be very different to another.

WSP’s Flood and Coastal Risk Management Framework will bring a level of standardisation and greater knowledge of potential problems across the network.

Network Rail’s industry weather response director Lisa Angus said, “When our railway was built between 200 and 150 years ago, engineers chose the most level routes they could, usually along rivers or the beach, cut into hillsides or raised on embankments made of whatever material was nearby.

“This means our railway is often the lowest part of the landscape, providing an accidental drainage channel, or sits just above water level. In addition, railway embankments were never designed to be flood defences, and are not classed as such, but they often still act that way for communities.

“Climate change means those weaknesses are becoming a greater problem and we need a new approach to tackle flooding, not on our own but as part of the country’s critical infrastructure.”

Dr Kat Ibbotson, Strategic Advisory Director at WSP, said, “We're proud to be working with Network Rail to improve the railway's resilience to climate change. The partnership will enable a more consistent, data-driven approach to risk management across the network. By helping Network Rail shift from reactive responses to proactive flood and coastal erosion risk management, we’re not only safeguarding vital transport assets but, also shaping a transformative blueprint for long-term climate adaptation and national resilience."