2022
Bransford, Worcestershire
Network Rail
Crown Services Ltd
Maccaferri
Anti-Burrowing Protection for Rail Embankment
Mesh can be locally cut and released to surround obstacles
Challenge
Network Rail undertook planned rail embankment maintenance on the westbound Worcester to Hereford line near Bransford Court Lane, Worcestershire. Following devegetation works, the embankment became vulnerable to burrowing animals such as rabbits, badgers, and other mammals. These animals can tunnel into the embankment core, creating voids that compromise structural stability and increase the risk of failure.
A major concern was the impact of stormwater infiltration. Animal burrows act as channels for water ingress, allowing rainwater to penetrate deep into the embankment and weaken its internal structure. Over time, this can lead to erosion, instability, and costly maintenance issues.
To address these risks, Network Rail required a durable anti-burrowing solution that would protect the embankment while maintaining an environmentally sensitive design. The system needed to prevent animal access without restricting the re-establishment of vegetation, ensuring both structural performance and ecological integration.
Solution
Maccaferri worked with contractor Crown Services Ltd to deliver a high-performance embankment protection system using Anti-Burrowing DT Mesh. This steel double twist wire mesh was specifically selected for its proven ability to deter a wide range of burrowing animals, including larger species such as badgers, which cannot be effectively controlled using lightweight netting or plastic geogrids.
The Anti-Burrowing DT Mesh provides a robust and long-lasting barrier that prevents animals from accessing and undermining the embankment. Its optimised mesh aperture size also restricts juvenile burrowing mammals, ensuring comprehensive protection across species.
A key advantage of the system is its flexibility and environmental compatibility. The double twist mesh can be easily adapted on site, allowing contractors to cut around existing trees and shrubs. The mesh can then be securely laced back together without compromising its structural integrity, enabling vegetation to be retained and incorporated into the final design.
Maccaferri supplied approximately 3,200m² of Anti-Burrowing DT Mesh, which was installed in July 2022 following the completion of devegetation works. The result is a resilient, sustainable embankment protection solution that mitigates the risks of burrowing and water ingress while supporting long-term vegetation growth.
Used Products
