The idea
The Northampton & Lamport Railway is run entirely by volunteers. One of our key responsibilities is managing and keeping on top of vegetation growth along our 2.5 mile line. We share the old railway formation with the Brampton Valley Way (BVW), which is a linear public park owned by the local Council (WNC). The route is also part of the National Cycle Network. Our volunteers currently rely on hand tools, hedge trimmers and brush cutters. A wood chipper would greatly assist with being able to dispose of the considerable amount of cuttings created (reducing the need to either burn cuttings and/or transport them significant distances). This would make our volunteer work much more effective, as well as allowing cuttings to be disposed of with less environmental impact. We have already received 50% funding towards the cost of the chipper from a local Parish Council (demonstrating local support), so are seeking support to fund the remainder.
What we'll deliver
- Procurement of heavy duty wood chipper
- Use of chipper to manage vegetation along our railway
Why it's a great idea
Vegetation management is essential for the safe operation of our heritage railway (which is open to the public throughout the year). In addition, management keeps the linear park more open and preserves wider landscape views for the public who use it. If vegetation cannot be sufficiently managed, the linear park becomes more of a green tunnel and tree roots can compromise drainage, leading to sections becoming flooded/muddy, or causing damage to embankments and bridges along the route. The result could be that the railway was damaged and had to close and the linear park became less attractive to the public.
Steps to get it done
- Purchase of a heavy duty wood chipper
