A detailed map of all habitats found alongside the rail network is produced as part of Network Rail plan for vegetation management.

A detailed national map of all habitats found alongside the rail network has been produced by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, as part of Network Rail’s plan for sustainable vegetation management.

High-resolution aerial imagery has been combined with millions of records of species, enabling predictions to be made of which animals are likely to be present in lineside habitats - including grasslands, heathlands and woodland.

Network Rail will use this insight to ensure its staff and contractors are aware of the possible presence of rare species when carrying out vegetation management.

The map will also inform the company’s conservation measures, to increase biodiversity and monitor future trends. Changes in vegetation associated with the railway have led to a loss of biodiverse flower rich habitats since the 1960s - a trend NR intends to reverse.

Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “This high-tech approach will help the rail industry do even more to preserve the unique and picturesque habitats found alongside our rail network.

“By protecting biodiversity hotspots and rare species, the use of science and satellites is making the railway an even greener way to travel.”

NR Safety, Technical and Engineering Director Martin Frobisher described the technology as “tremendously exciting”, adding: “Measuring biodiversity is very complicated and is especially tricky for a large organisation such as Network Rail, which manages a vast land estate spread throughout the country. This is a real breakthrough, and this technology enables us to measure and monitor the progress we are making.

“We are determined to improve the biodiversity alongside the railway lineside.

“Our Biodiversity Action Plan sets out a new approach, and by working with experts such as UKCEH and by using the latest tools and technology we can better manage and conserve a species-rich lineside while continuing to run a safe and reliable railway.”