Sustainability
Context
Arthian were appointed as the Environmental Manager and Environmental Clerk of Works (EnCoW) for a pylon relocation project in Airdrie on behalf of SP Energy Networks (SPEN). The works formed part of a critical infrastructure upgrade intended to support the future redevelopment of the Monklands Hospital site.
The Challenge
The relocation of high-voltage transmission infrastructure presented several environmental challenges. The project was situated within a dynamic and sensitive landscape, requiring strict adherence to environmental legislation and best practice guidance. Multiple active work zones operating concurrently increased the risk of cumulative environmental impacts, such as soil erosion, habitat disturbance, and watercourse pollution.
Ensuring compliance across overlapping activities required robust communication protocols, real-time monitoring, and adaptive mitigation strategies. The Environmental Manager had overarching responsibility for the environmental compliance of the project and worked closely with the site-based EnCoW to maintain environmental integrity throughout the works, particularly in managing risks associated with ecological sensitivities, protected species, and legacy land condition.
Role and Responsibilities
As Environmental Manager and EnCoW, responsibilities included:
- Monitoring construction activities to ensure compliance with environmental planning conditions and statutory obligations.
- Conducting routine inspections focused on pollution prevention, ecological protection, and adherence to mitigation measures.
- Advising site teams on best practice for working near sensitive habitats and watercourses.
- Coordinating with contractors and consultants to resolve environmental issues in real time.
- Managing environmental risks associated with overlapping project boundaries and shared access routes with the adjacent Monklands Hospital redevelopment.
Site Complexity and Challenges
The project presented several unique challenges:
- Concurrent Infrastructure Works: The proximity of the hospital redevelopment required close coordination to avoid environmental conflicts and ensure consistent standards across both sites.
- Ecological Sensitivity: Works were carried out near areas of ecological interest, including watercourses and semi-natural habitats, requiring strict adherence to buffer zones and seasonal constraints.
- Utility and Ground Risk: The relocation of pylons involved excavation and foundation works in areas with legacy infrastructure, increasing the risk of contamination and disturbance.
Mitigation and Management Strategies
To address these challenges the following were implements:
- Established clear communication protocols with adjacent project teams to manage shared environmental risks.
- Maintained a live environmental action tracker to monitor compliance and follow-up actions.
- Liaised with ecological consultants to ensure appropriate timing and methods for vegetation clearance and habitat protection.
Outcomes and Achievements
- Environmental risks were effectively managed across both the SPEN and adjacent hospital redevelopment interfaces.
- Site teams demonstrated improved environmental awareness and engagement, contributing to a strong compliance culture.
- My reporting and recommendations supported transparent communication with stakeholders and informed future phases of infrastructure delivery.
This project underscored the critical importance of environmental oversight in complex, multi-stakeholder infrastructure settings. The concurrent nature of the SPEN pylon relocation works and the redevelopment of the Monklands Hospital site necessitated a high level of coordination, adaptability, and clear communication across all parties involved.
The roles of Environmental Manager and Environmental Clerk of Works (EnCoW) were pivotal in upholding environmental standards and ensuring that infrastructure development progressed in a responsible and sustainable manner. The experience highlighted the value of early stakeholder engagement, collaborative working practices, and real-time decision-making in effectively managing environmental risks.
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