Drainage works 14th April

After last week's visit, not so much to report this week.  It is very likely the piling and installation of the overhead line equipment will begin next week.  I will endeavour to get some pictures of this happening.  The main visible changes were at the Hitchin North Junction end relating to the drainage work.  There was however a welcome turnaround in the weather.  Last week was bitterly cold with snow flurries.  Today was shirt sleeve weather .

Looking towards the viaduct from the banks of the River Hiz.  Area now fenced off and warning signs in place. Drainage work is well under way.

 Culvert with what appears to be a debris trap.  It is quite deep but it has to nearly match the river level I guess which is just behind me.

 Could these be additional beetle banks?  They are on both sides of the culvert.  I am sure when this work is finished and landscaped, it will be an attractive addition to the conservation area.

 Tidying up of the area continues.  Still a way to go on the triangle of higher ground, though.

 Expansion gap with protection against birds perching.

 More mesh to prevent birds from nesting.  This is being installed along the whole length of the viaduct.

Last picture shows the river bridge by the new Hitchin North junction.  More ballast has appeared since my last visit.  Also the two boards that were behind the fence above the bridge have gone and are now downstream in the river.  Whoever did this was being incredibly reckless as they were trespassing by the side of a high speed railway line.  The gap in the new fence has now been closed so that will hopefully prevent any further trespass.