Source · Select Committees · Welsh Affairs Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Paragraph: 110
Efforts should be made to develop synergies between climate mitigation efforts, such as protecting against...
Conclusion
Efforts should be made to develop synergies between climate mitigation efforts, such as protecting against rising sea-levels, and measures to protect transport infrastructure. Noting that significant Welsh transport infrastructure lies either adjacent to the coast or runs along valley lines (often alongside rivers), we believe there are significant opportunities to link efforts and budgets to protect transport infrastructure to wider community protection.
Paragraph Reference:
110
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The UK Government agrees with this recommendation. Climate change is the most pressing environmental challenge of our time. We must limit global warming to well below 2°C and have legislated to end the UK’s contribution to climate change by 2050. Network Rail has and continues to engage with local authorities, coastal groups and in Wales to understand the impact of the Shoreline Management Plans on the railway infrastructure, which will not only inform asset management planning, but will also need to inform longer-term strategic development around sustainable transport solutions to protect against rising sea-levels. Network Rail has now commenced work on the Whole Industry Strategic Plan, with one of the core workstreams relating to Resilience and Climate Change and the impact on the railway network. Working with industry partners, funders and stakeholders, this workstream will also inform future associated planning activity for renewal and enhancement of the rail network. Network Rail has undertaken significant recent work to restore the Conwy Valley line following storm damage in 2018 and 2020. These works have enhanced the resilience of the line against future weather events. In addition, recent work has been completed at Black Bridge on the Cambrian Main Line to raise the bridge level by one metre to avoid future closures of the line during heavy rainfall when the river floods.