Challenge: Complex Geological Features and Retaining Wall Design
GeoEnviro Solutions Ltd was engaged to conduct a detailed geotechnical site investigation for the residential redevelopment of the former Coombe Farm in Saltdean, near Brighton. The site presented several challenges, including historical use as a chalk quarry and the requirement to design retaining walls to support the development. The investigation scope included assessing soil stability for retaining wall design and evaluating ground conditions for pile design.
The primary challenges included:
- Slope Stability and Retaining Wall Design: The site’s varied topography required detailed analysis to ensure the retaining walls could support the development safely.
- Historical Site Conditions: The main farm area had previously been a chalk quarry, and many original quarry features were still present, complicating site investigations.
- Pile Design in Challenging Ground Conditions: Geotechnical data was necessary to design pile foundations suitable for the main body of the site.
Given the site’s complexity, a thorough geotechnical investigation was critical to ensuring that construction could proceed safely and sustainably. Site investigation plays a crucial role in identifying potential risks and ensuring the structural stability of developments. For projects like Coombe Farm, understanding the site’s geological characteristics ensures that retaining walls are designed to withstand both immediate and long-term pressures, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs or failures.
Solution: Targeted Geotechnical Investigation
GeoEnviro Solutions Ltd implemented an efficient and detailed investigation plan to address the challenges of the Coombe Farm redevelopment. The scope included:
- Borehole Drilling: Using a Sonic Drilling Rig operated by our partners at Borehole Solutions Ltd, five boreholes were drilled to depths of 15.00 meters below ground level (mbgl). Two boreholes focused on the main site area for pile design, while three were located on the slopes to gather data for slope stability and retaining wall design.
- The use of Sonic Drilling allowed for efficient penetration of the site’s chalk substrate, providing high-quality core samples for analysis. This method was particularly effective in assessing the site’s unique geology, ensuring accurate data for pile foundation design. Trial pits further enhanced our understanding of soil composition, enabling us to recommend optimal designs for the retaining walls and foundation systems.
- Rapid Fieldwork Execution: The fieldwork, encompassing all borehole drilling, was completed within five working days to meet the project’s tight timeline.
- Comprehensive Data Collection: Detailed subsurface data was gathered to inform both the retaining wall and pile design, ensuring structural stability across the site.
Result: Foundation for Safe and Effective Development
The site investigation revealed several key findings:
- Geotechnical Insights for Retaining Wall Design: GES provided detailed geotechnical data, enabling the design of robust retaining walls to ensure the safety of the residential development.
- Optimized Pile Design Recommendations: Geotechnical data supported the development of pile designs tailored to the specific ground conditions of the former quarry site.
- Efficient Project Advancement:The timely completion of fieldwork and subsequent recommendations allowed the project to proceed on schedule, ensuring the site was ready for development.
The timely completion of the site investigation not only kept the project on schedule but also helped identify potential cost-saving measures. For instance, optimized designs for retaining walls reduced material waste while maintaining structural integrity. Additionally, the project’s adherence to environmental standards ensured minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
The comprehensive data provided by GeoEnviro Solutions gave the client confidence in moving forward with their plans. Detailed insights into subsurface conditions allowed stakeholders to make informed decisions, ensuring regulatory compliance and a foundation for a safe, sustainable development.
Looking for professional site investigation services for residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects? We deliver tailored geotechnical and geoenvironmental expertise to meet your project’s needs. Contact us today!
