Lyleston Farm

Due to the depth of the UTX, traditional open-cut replacement would have required disruptive access. To mitigate disruption to Scotland’s Railway customers, the team adopted a trenchless method — guided auger boring. This approach enabled the installation of 26 metres of 400mm steel pipe beneath the live track during dayshift hours, allowing train services to continue uninterrupted.

In addition to the UTX installation, the works included the construction of two headwalls and catchpits, as well as 55 metres of 375mm diameter carrier pipe leading to an outfall at the Firth of Clyde. This comprehensive drainage solution ensures long-term infrastructure resilience.

During the project, an unrelated issue was identified at a second UTX located approximately 100 metres along the track. QTS were able to offer an efficient solution by completing works on both UTXs within the same mobilisation.

Through the use of innovative trenchless technology and strategic planning, QTS delivered the project to programme, accident-free, and with minimal impact to rail operations — a further testament to the skill and adaptability of the QTS workforce.