![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.railuk.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/11140324\/Autumn-prep-work-on-Far-North-Line-scaled.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nFallen leaves can become crushed under train wheels, creating a slippery coating on the rails that affects trains’ ability to accelerate and brake safely. Heavy rain, flooding, high winds and fallen trees can also cause disruption.<\/p>\n
From early autumn and continuing into winter, specialist Rail Head Treatment Trains (RHTTs) will form a key part of the programme, using high-pressure water jets to clear leaf residue from the rails and help improve train performance.<\/p>\n
Across Anglia, the trains are expected to treat an estimated 100,595 miles of track, with 28,419 miles already completed.<\/p>\n
Through using our Drone Arb technology, to monitor lineside trees, we have identified residential properties with trampolines in the gardens. We have written to these lineside neighbours to encourage them to secure the trampolines, as we have seen in the past how they can get blown onto the railway. We have also written to neighbours and supply chain partners who are carrying out work near the railway to ask them to secure any materials such as plastic sheeting, which again can be blown onto the railway during storms and high winds.<\/p>\n
Alongside this, train operators across GBR Anglia are checking that trains can brake safely in wet and slippery conditions, making sure heating and other essential systems are ready for colder weather, stocking up on important maintenance supplies and preparing frontline station colleagues to deal with seasonal challenges.<\/p>\n
Using information about current ground conditions across the East Anglia region, and carrying out targeted work across the network based on those ground conditions, will help to reduce the risk of weather-related disruption.<\/p>\n
Cambridgeshire and Norfolk: Following performance challenges on the Fen Line over the summer, GBR Anglia is working with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) to improve resilience. Work between Ely and King’s Lynn includes drainage inspections and maintenance, infrastructure monitoring and vegetation management to help reduce the impact of heavy rain and other seasonal weather.<\/p>\n
Suffolk: Drainage inspections and maintenance, alongside vegetation management, are taking place at vulnerable locations across the county. This includes flood-prone areas such as Stowmarket, where drainage assets are being checked to help them cope with periods of heavy rain.<\/p>\n