Local manufacturer Elite Precast Concrete has played a key role in restoring the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) by supplying versatile Legato® concrete blocks to rebuild critical infrastructure after a landslip earlier this year.

The severe slip at the end of January brought the historic line to a halt, threatening the future of the heritage railway and causing major disruption between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade stations. SVR structural engineer and project manager Antony Bartlam described it as “a complete freak accident,” noting that “the embankment and the wing wall have been there for 160-odd years, and nothing had happened to it.”

Specialist contractor CML led the repairs, requiring a robust, rapid and cost-effective solution that met the needs of a heritage railway and complied with strict environmental regulations. Elite Precast Concrete’s Legato® interlocking blocks provided exactly that: a modular, heavy-duty option ideal for large retaining walls and embankment repairs.

More than 100 Legato® blocks were delivered to site and installed on newly poured footings with a geotextile layer. Their interlocking design delivered immediate stability and strength, forming the backbone of the rebuilt embankment. “Legato® blocks were the perfect choice for this project,” said Stuart Hale, CML 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 safety or quality.”

The scheme presented challenges beyond the engineering. Extensive ecological surveys protected local wildlife, including otters and crayfish, and the Mor Brook was temporarily culverted to allow safe access for heavy machinery. The modular nature of the blocks enabled precise installation in these sensitive conditions, minimising environmental impact and ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Choosing a local supplier also supported sustainability and the regional economy. Sourcing from Elite Precast Concrete reduced transport distances and emissions, cut traffic impact and helped keep spend within the area. “Using locally produced Legato® blocks not only sped up delivery and construction but also reinforced our mission to build sustainably,” a CML spokesperson said. Legato® blocks are known for flexibility and durability, can be deployed quickly and reused or reconfigured, aligning well with low-carbon construction practices.

Following months of work, the SVR marked the full reopening of the line with a visit from the iconic Flying Scotsman, drawing large crowds and turning the occasion into a celebration for enthusiasts and the wider community. SVR Managing Director Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster said: “It’s so satisfying to see real progress and we were able to welcome visitors back to a fully reunited Severn Valley Railway.” Owen Batham added: “The Flying Scotsman is a symbol of resilience and heritage, and seeing it steam along the restored track was the perfect way to honour everyone’s hard work.”

The collaboration between SVR, CML and Elite Precast Concrete shows how community-driven infrastructure can balance efficiency, heritage preservation and environmental responsibility. With trains running safely once more through the Severn Valley, the project stands as a testament to what local expertise and sustainable values can achieve.