Introduction
In January 2021, an emergency landslip occurred at Newington Cutting, Kent, resulting in 2,000 tonnes of soil collapsing onto the railway line. This significant disruption prompted an urgent response from Network Rail and Balfour Beatty Rail, who faced the challenge of restoring rail operations swiftly to avoid extensive delays and safety hazards.
Project Overview
Client: Balfour Beatty Rail and Network Rail
Location: Newington Cutting, Kent, UK
Project Duration: 2 weeks
Notice Period for Sentry System Deployment: 1 day
The cutting's instability required immediate action. Network Rail and Balfour Beatty initially attempted temporary stabilisation using bags of ballast. However, it became clear that a permanent solution was necessary as the cutting continued to shift. Thus, Balfour Beatty opted for a rapid deployment of The Sentry System to provide comprehensive monitoring and support during the repair works.
Implementation
The Sentry System, known for its advanced monitoring capabilities, was deployed with just one day’s notice. Its role was crucial in offering a live view of the ongoing repair works and in monitoring various environmental factors including noise, dust, temperature, pressure, and humidity. The deployment also encompassed drainage works, which were integral to preventing prolonged disruption.
To enhance the monitoring process, our ‘Aura’ Noise Monitor was placed 300 metres from the site, while ‘Moko’ Vibration Sensors were installed adjacent to the works. This setup allowed for simultaneous measurement of noise and vibration: when a pile was driven into the ground, Moko recorded the vibrations, and Aura measured the noise at a distance, ensuring comprehensive data on the impact of the repair operations.
Challenges
The project faced multiple challenges. The landslip had left the site with steep and slippery banks, making it difficult to find stable locations for the Sentry Cameras. Additionally, access to these areas was unprepared and hazardous, complicating the installation process. The project endured a range of weather conditions, from 80mph winds and heavy rain to bright sunny days and a final blizzard that damaged fencing. Despite these adverse conditions, The Sentry System remained operational throughout.
Community Impact
The site was in close proximity to sensitive areas, including local residences and Demelza Hospice for Children, located 600 metres away. The potential noise impact on the hospice, which cares for critically ill children, was a significant concern. To address this, the Aura Devices were strategically placed at mid-distance from the hospice, allowing for accurate noise level modelling without direct intrusion.
On the fifth day of operations, a noise complaint was received from local residents at 2 am. Using data from The Sentry System, it was confirmed that the noise levels at that time were not high enough to warrant concern. Further analysis showed that noise from a car in the hospice car park exceeded the noise from the repair works throughout the entire project.
Outcomes
The deployment of The Sentry System proved highly successful. It enabled site management to monitor the progress of the works in real-time, facilitating timely adjustments without the need for frequent site visits. The system also ensured minimal disruption to the local community and provided reassurance to vulnerable groups, including the children at Demelza Hospice.
Key Achievements:
Swift and effective deployment with one day’s notice.
Comprehensive environmental monitoring throughout diverse weather conditions.
Effective noise and vibration management, protecting sensitive locations and addressing community concerns.
Successful completion of essential repairs with minimal disruption to rail services and local residents.
This project exemplified our commitment to delivering essential infrastructure repairs while safeguarding community wellbeing. The successful integration of The Sentry System into this emergency response underscored its capability to manage complex, high-stakes scenarios efficiently.