Earth Environmental & Geotechnical have been involved in Environmental & Geotechnical Site Investigation for residential development in Barrow in Furness Cumbria.

A previous consultancy practice had conducted a site investigation (and remediation strategy) on the site and concluded that half of the site required a piled foundation solution and extensive remediation including gas protection measures.

We quickly identified that the ground gas regime was incorrect and that more monitoring could allow for the removal of ground gas barriers.

The need for piled foundations was based on window sampling drilling which identified deep made ground up to 5m thick. This was incorrect and was attributed to no casing being used during the drilling process. Material from upper elevations was therefore found at a deeper depth.

A further site investigation confirmed that the whole site was amenable to shallow strip or pad foundations and that the soil contamination was attributable to an ash horizon. The ash was probably imported to the site to improve drainage on the former field.

An alternative Remediation Strategy was developed which saved the client a substantial amount in construction, consultancy, and design fees.

The case study highlights that when choosing a consultant always examine the credentials of the project manager.

Environmental & Geotechnical Site Investigation for residential development in Barrow in Furness Cumbria.