Project Principles and Objectives
Ryebridge undertook the civil engineering works associated with the installation of new drainage infrastructure and a grey water recycling system to support the new train wash facility at the Laira Depot in Plymouth. The works formed part of Great Western Railway’s wider enhancement programme for the depot’s rolling stock cleaning operations.
Taking over from a previous contractor who had demobilised following supplier‑related issues, Ryebridge assumed full responsibility for progressing the project through to completion. The delivery spanned a period of approximately 10 weeks, during which the team worked to a compressed programme and within a highly constrained rail‑side environment.
Scope of Works
The project included:
Installation of new drainage to service the upgraded carriage wash system, including manholes, gully runs and associated ducting, as detailed MH1–MH8, drainage runs, and duct routes).
Construction and installation of a grey water collection tank, designed to capture and store wash water for reuse within the cleaning process, improving environmental efficiency.
Excavation of a 5‑metre‑deep trench to accommodate the tanks and associated pipework, including the design and installation of suitable temporary works and safety shoring to ensure safe access and compliance.
Installation of the Grey water tank and associated foundations, including management of free‑issued components such as the tank and track pans.
Working Environment and Rail Interface
The works were delivered adjacent to a live 132kV overhead line, necessitating prior permission and detailed coordination before excavation commenced. Safety measures were strictly implemented throughout.
Due to the operational railway environment, the project required:
A Network Rail–approved Controller of Site Safety (COSS) on site to supervise work conducted during line blockades.
Deployment of PTS‑trained staff where activities occurred outside blockade windows or when possession conditions could not be secured.
Careful planning around agreed line block times, as outlined in project documentation.
Most of the works were undertaken during planned blockades to ensure safe access around live track and depot operations, with additional oversight by specialist rail engineers and track monitoring teams.
Project Delivery and Management
Ryebridge managed all civil engineering aspects, plant, labour, muck‑away operations, and coordination with specialist rail personnel. The team also provided updated Work Package Plans, lifting plans for tank and unit handling, and full management of site safety and compliance. Activities were executed using plant suitable for the site’s restricted access, including a 22‑tonne excavator compatible with the depot’s height limitations.
