Isle of Grain to Shorne Gas Pipeline

Turf Translocation

The National Grid has constructed an underground gas pipeline from the Isle of Grain to Shorne to facilitate the transportation of natural gas from the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) import terminal at Grain. The 21km pipeline initially crosses the Stoke Marshes, an internationally designated site of ecological importance, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserve, making it a highly sensitive habitat.

Inscapes collaborated with AMEC and National Grid to develop a methodology and environmental statement for the project, employing advanced techniques and systems. Inscapes was tasked with lifting, cataloguing, maintaining, and replacing over 14,000m² of natural turfgrass along the pipeline’s route, working in close partnership with Natural England staff.

Specialist equipment was used to carefully lift the turf and topsoil, preserving the natural seed bank of indigenous grasses and flowers. The materials were then relocated to a temporary receptor site adjacent to the pipeline route. The turf was subsequently replaced in its original location, ensuring the seed bank remained intact to maintain the continuity of growth.

The translocation of turf from the wetland areas posed a challenge but was successfully completed within three months of the initial turf being lifted, ensuring prompt reinstatement