Environment Crossrail Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Transport for London (TfL) and is committed to implementing all the provisions in theTfL Health, Safety and Environment Policy. Our approach to the environment is set out in the Crossrail Environmental Policy and our Environmental Objectives. Crossrail Environmental Objectives To support the implementation of the Transport for London (TfL) Health, Safety and Environmental Policy and to assist in monitoring of environmental performance, TfL has set a number of Environmental Objectives and Key Performance Indicators

Ecology

The majority of Crossrail works are being built within urban and suburban areas on land that has previously been developed. These areas can be important for biodiversity. Areas of waste land surrounding goods yards and sidings and along railway lines provide a unique habitat and corridors for wildlife movement within densely populated residential or industrial environments.

No sites of national or international importance for nature conservation will be affected by the construction or operation of Crossrail.

Further information can also be seen in Information Paper D17, Ecological Impacts.

Pre-Construction

A comprehensive suite of surveys has been undertaken including plant, reptile, bird, fish, bat, badger, otter, water vole, great crested newt, and terrestrial and aquatic invertebrate surveys. Surveying work is ongoing and will continue to provide valuable information to the project.

Crossrail Limited is also a member of The Essex Wildlife Trust, The London Wildlife Trust, and the Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust.

Mitigation

During the design process, Crossrail is developing mitigation plans for habitats and species recorded along the route that may be affected by works.

The construction works will be undertaken in accordance with measures set out in the Crossrail Construction Code and in accordance with Ecological Management Plans which will be prepared for sensitive sites.

Invasive Species

Whilst it is important to conserve and enhance the biological diversity of Crossrail land, it is equally important to manage and control non-native, invasive species. Ecological surveys have recorded the presence of Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed and Chinese mitten crab. Management plans are being developed for construction works in affected areas to control and prevent the spread of these species.

home