Crossrail Surface Works Archaelogy

Engaging a Project Archaeologist to work as part of the team on complex schemes improves communication and can help to manage costs associated with archaeology.

Network Rail was responsible for the design, development and delivery of archaeological works on the surface works section of the Crossrail project, covering a total network of 110km of track and 29 stations from Reading in the west to Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east. As part of these works AB Heritage was engaged to act as Project Archaeologists working closely with the in-house teams. Key works included developing and overseeing a system that provided a balance between the needs of archaeology and development, helping the proposed works move along smoothly and helping avoid delays to design and construction.

The works, undertaken included building archaeology into a recognised and sustainable part of Network Rail’s Consents and Environment team; managing the relationship between the Network Rail works and that of the Crossrail Limited team; and managing and approving the scope of archaeological works undertaken within the Surface Works section to ensure appropriate and best value, as well as proactive rather than reactive management.

Tertius Beneke, Environmental Manager (Crossrail), Network Rail

“AB Heritage played a central role in the success of Network Rail’s Crossrail works. We work in consultation with English Heritage and other local authorities archaeologists and it was AB Heritage’s ability to negotiate with all these different organisations, managing every aspect of the archaeological requirements, that was so valuable and second to none. AB Heritage’s client focused approach combined with a high level of expertise, meant we could operate confident that we have the best archaeological strategy in place“

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