Network Rail & WSP Partner for Framework to Improve Rail Flood Preparations

Network Rail and WSP have begun working on a new framework that seeks to improve the UK’s railways readiness for, and resistance to, potential floods and coastal erosion.

The decision has been made to formulate the framework following what Network Rail refers to as an ‘increase in disruption from extreme weather over the last five years’, citing floods throughout 2023/24 that led to over 1,200 incidents on the railway.

Key aspects of the framework will include the improvement of the understanding of the railway’s vulnerability to flood and coastal risks both now and in the future, the improvement of the effectiveness of current processes, forecasting and decision-making tools and an agreement of the roles the two companies play in wider emergency response and risk management.

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.

The Flood and Coastal Risk Management is hoped to bring a level of standardisation and knowledge of potential issues across the UK rail network, with different train operators having their own rules on how services are run through flood waters.

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.