We thought we would outline the process for installing the separation fencing.
The construction teams use a grid to ensure post holes are dug at exact intervals. An auger drill is used to dig down 80cm and the post is then concreted into the soil.
Where there are bridges over the Busway, holes are hand dug or we sometimes use a vacuum excavator, which sucks out the soil. This is useful when we have cables in the ground, as it makes digging the holes much safer for our operatives.
Separately, yellow evacuation gates are installed at approximately 100m intervals. Once around 100m of posts have been put in place, standard fence panels are installed between the posts and the gates. Gaps are left for non-standard panels, including narrower panels (used where the alignment of the fencing changes) or panels which include a slope in their design to accommodate height changes along the length of the route. This is why there are occasional gaps on the Trumpington Spur - these panels are due to arrive and be installed within the next few weeks.
Every 9m a fencing panel with a mammal gap is installed to ensure small animals like badgers can find their way through the fencing. In some sections of the Busway, there are toad tunnels underneath the tracks. As works are completed, toad tunnels are identified ready to be dug out as part of ecological works. Clearing the toad tunnels has to be done at certain times of the year so we don’t disturb hibernating animals.
