Network Rail: Biodiversity
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what the total estimated cost is for Network Rail to compile, complete, and implement Habitat Management Plans (HMPs) across 25 per cent of its network by March 2029; and what proportion of this cost is projected to be spent on external environmental consultancies.
Answered by Keir Mather
Network Rail has completed habitat management plans for almost 80 per cent of the network by area. These documents have been produced using in-house resource as well as utilising external expertise such as with the consultancy arm of the Wildlife Trusts. The implementation of the plans will take place as and when required at a particular location. The management of the railway lineside estate has to take place for safety and operational reasons.
Any costs associated with that management have already been agreed as part of the Final Determination. Habitat management plans provide advice and guidance on how this essential activity can take place not only safely and legally but also providing environmental benefits alongside those for the railway – they can also bring efficiencies through different ways of working.
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