Ecological Support for Network Rail Structures

In support of planned demolition and refurbishment works scheduled for Winter 2023, Network Rail required urgent ecological assessments for a number of structures in the East Kilbride area. The primary concern was the potential presence of roosting bats—a protected species under UK law—which could significantly delay or alter the scope of the proposed works if not properly assessed and mitigated. 

IKM Consulting, now part of Arthian, was appointed to deliver this critical ecological support. The challenge was twofold: to rapidly scope and mobilise a programme of Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs) and, where necessary, follow up with emergency bat activity surveys—all within the constraints of the 2023 bat survey season. With limited time and a high level of regulatory scrutiny, the project demanded swift action, technical precision, and seamless coordination with the client, Story Contracting.

At short notice, Arthian developed a detailed scope and programme for the initial PRA work. Resources were quickly reallocated to assemble a team of licensed bat ecologists and surveyors, ensuring that all necessary surveys could be completed within the seasonal window. 

A total of nine bat activity surveys were carried out using EchoMeter Touch 2 Pro devices paired with Android tablets, enabling real-time acoustic monitoring and data capture. These surveys were conducted at dusk and dawn to maximise the likelihood of detecting bat presence and activity. Throughout the process, the team provided regular progress updates to the client, maintaining transparency and enabling timely decision-making. 

The surveys concluded that no roosting bats were present in any of the assessed structures. As a result, no further bat activity surveys were required, and the proposed works were able to proceed without delay. 

Although no bats were found, Arthian provided a series of precautionary recommendations to ensure continued compliance and ecological sensitivity during construction: 

• Implementation of a lighting plan for any night-time working 
• Immediate cessation of works if roosting bats are discovered during construction 
• Update surveys to be conducted if works do not commence within 12 months 

Impact 

The successful and timely delivery of this project enabled Story Contracting to proceed with their programme of works as planned, avoiding costly delays and ensuring compliance with ecological legislation. This case highlights Arthian’s agility, ecological expertise, and commitment to delivering practical, regulatory-compliant solutions under tight timeframes.