August 2025

Elite Precast Concrete Supports CML on Severn Valley Railway Restoration Project

Local manufacturer Elite Precast Concrete has played a crucial role in the restoration of the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) rail line by supplying their versatile Legato® concrete blocks to help rebuild essential infrastructure following a landslide earlier this year.

The devastating landslip at the end of January brought the historic Severn Valley Railway (SVR) to a standstill, threatening the future of the beloved heritage line and causing significant disruption between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade stations.

Antony Bartlam, SVR’s structural engineer and project manager, described the event as “a complete freak accident,” noting, “that embankment and the wing wall have been there for 160-odd years, and nothing had happened to it.”

The repair project, managed by specialist contractors CML, required a robust, rapid and cost-effective solution that could meet the demands of a heritage railway and comply with stringent environmental regulations.

Enter Elite Precast Concrete’s Legato® interlocking blocks – a modular, heavy-duty solution, ideal for large-scale retaining walls embankment repairs.

Over 100 Legato® blocks were delivered to site and expertly installed, along with a geotextile material on newly poured footings. Their interlocking design provided immediate stability and strength, forming the backbone of the new embankment structure.

“Legato® blocks were the perfect choice for this project, “said Stuart Hale, CML’s Contracts Manager. “Their size, weight and interlocking capability allowed us to build a solid, permanent wall quickly and efficiently – crucial for getting the railway back on track without compromising on safety or quality.

Sustainable, Safe and Future-Proof
The project was not without its challenges. Extensive ecological surveys were required to protect local wildlife, including otters and crayfish, and temporary culverting of the Mor Brook was implemented to allow safe access for heavy machinery. The modular nature of the Legato® blocks allowed for precise installation even in these sensitive conditions, minimising environmental impact and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Building Back Stronger—and Greener
The choice of Elite Precast Concrete, based locally, underscores a strong commitment to sustainability and regional economic resilience. By sourcing materials from a nearby supplier, the project significantly reduced the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transport, minimised traffic impact, and supported the local economy.

“Using locally produced Legato® blocks not only sped up the delivery and construction process but also reinforced our mission to build sustainably,” said a CML spokesperson. “It’s a win for the environment and a win for regional businesses.”

Elite’s Legato blocks are renowned for their flexibility and durability. They are designed for rapid deployment and can be reused or reconfigured as needed—aligning well with eco-conscious construction practices.

Celebrations on the Right Track
Following months of restoration work, the Severn Valley Railway celebrated the full reopening of the line with a spectacular visit from the iconic Flying Scotsman. The return of this legendary steam locomotive drew large crowds, turning the event into a momentous occasion for both railway enthusiasts and the wider community.

Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster, SVR’s Managing Director, praised the work: “It’s so satisfying to see real progress and we’re welcomed visitors back to a fully reunited Severn Valley Railway.”

“The Flying Scotsman is a symbol of resilience and heritage and having it steam along the restored track was the perfect way to honour everyone’s hard work,” said Owen Batham

The collaboration between SVR, CML, and Elite Precast Concrete highlights the power of community-driven infrastructure projects that balance efficiency, heritage preservation, and environmental responsibility.

As trains once again travel safely through the Severn Valley, the project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when local expertise and sustainable values are placed on the right track.