Dyer & Butler delivers embankment upgrade in the south of England ahead of schedule

We have completed the Franklands’ Embankment Phase 2 Scheme, restructuring the side of the Victoria to Brighton line sustainably and ahead of schedule.

Working on behalf of Network Rail, our team has formed a new embankment between Burgess Hill and Hassocks. Following the completion of an Emergency Earthwork Response on the line in April 2024, we have removed 1,000 tonnes of slipped material, replacing with 1,500 tonnes of new material, that has been well compacted and reshaped into a new embankment.

The project team has created the new embankment using Class 6N, a well graded granular fill material that is typically used to fill structures. The material ensures the durability and reliability of the embankment, as well as being made of recycled materials such as natural gravel, crushed concrete and natural sand.

From the beginning of the project in October 2024, our Project Team, including a collaborative supply chain, has been incredibly efficient finishing ahead of schedule and reducing disruption to the line over the festive period.

This successful project marks one of the first schemes we have delivered through the new CP7 Southern Minor Works Framework.

Across our projects, we prioritise sustainability reducing impact on the surrounding environment where we can.

The area surrounding the embankment is home to many species of flora and fauna, including Dormouse, who use the long undergrowth to move around and forage for food. Our Environmental Team were instrumental in ensuring reduced disruption for the Dormouse, including the installation of a purpose- built bridge that allowed the vegetation to remain in place.

This adaptation to the site allowed the species to move freely back and forth.

The project also required close engagement with the local community. To access the site, we had to go through a working sheep farm. Our Team worked closely with local farmers to make sure the areas of work were well cordoned off, protecting the livestock.

Will Hadfield, Operations Manager at Dyer & Butler, said: “We’re proud to have completed the Franklands Embankment project, delivering integral improvements to support major transport links from East Sussex to central London.

“Completing the works ahead of schedule highlights the significance of early planning and collaborative stakeholder and supply chain engagement. As with all our projects, our Environmental Team have been integral in making sure the local wildlife was left as undisturbed as possible.

“This project is a fantastic way to begin the CP7 Southern Framework and we look forward to working closely with Network Rail on our upcoming projects.”