The Challenge:
The project presented a significant geotechnical challenge, with the development site located on top of an exhausted quarry previously used as a tip for Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA). This extremely fine material retains water and becomes fluid when wet, creating complex ground conditions that required specialist engineering solutions for all foundation and drainage works. The project also needed to coordinate multiple utility installations while maintaining strict programme requirements for the wider distribution development.
Scope of Works
Our extensive delivery included:
Groundworks and Earthworks:
Formation excavation across challenging ground conditions
Importation and relocation of aggregate materials
Management of PFA material encountered during excavations
Drainage Systems:
Installation of storm drainage networks
Construction of drainage ditches for surface water management
Gully installations throughout the development
Installation of a 10-metre deep wet well
Construction of pumping main using both open cut and thrust boring techniques
Installation of attenuation tanks for sustainable drainage
Highway Infrastructure:
Construction of temporary S184 access from the A605 roundabout
Development of link access road connecting to the wider highway network
Delivery of S278 highway improvements
Construction of S38 adoptable roads within the development
Installation of kerbing and edgings throughout
Structural Elements:
Construction of concrete retaining walls
Installation of green bag retaining wall structures
Coordination of structural elements with challenging ground conditions
Utility Infrastructure:
Comprehensive multi-utility installations throughout the site
Coordination of service crossings and connections
Integration with existing utility networks
Location:
22 months (November 2021 - September 2023)
Project Value:
£5.65 million
Duration:
22 months (November 2021 - September 2023)
Client:
Glencar
Contract:
Client Bespoke, JCT Sub C 2016
Kingston Park, Peterborough
Multi-disciplinary infrastructure project providing access and services for distribution development at Kingston Park South, Peterborough.
Our Approach:
Recognising the unusual ground conditions, we implemented specialised construction methodologies appropriate for building on PFA fill. Our approach integrated geotechnical engineering expertise with practical construction techniques to ensure stable foundations for all infrastructure elements. We initially focused on creating the temporary access to enable the wider development to progress, then seamlessly transitioned to the permanent infrastructure works while maintaining site operations.
We maintained close coordination with utility providers throughout the project to ensure timely installations that aligned with the overall development programme. Our phased delivery strategy ensured that critical infrastructure was available when needed to support the construction and eventual operation of the distribution facility.
Overcoming Challenges:
The presence of PFA material across the site created significant engineering challenges for all foundation and drainage works. The material’s tendency to become fluid when wet required careful excavation techniques and appropriate temporary works to maintain stability. For the 10-metre deep wet well installation, we implemented specialised shoring systems to counter the unstable ground conditions, ensuring safe construction while maintaining structural integrity.
The pumping main installation required both open-cut trenching and thrust boring techniques to navigate existing infrastructure and minimise disruption. The thrust boring operations demanded precise control to maintain grade and alignment through variable ground conditions, showcasing our technical capability in specialised installation methods.
The coordination of multiple utility installations within a busy construction environment required careful planning and sequencing to avoid conflicts and maintain programme progress. Through proactive management and clear communication with all stakeholders, we successfully integrated these complex elements within the overall development timeline.
Key Achievements:
Starting with temporary access works and progressing to full infrastructure delivery demonstrates our ability to evolve with project requirements while maintaining continuity and quality. The successful management of the challenging PFA ground conditions showcases our geotechnical expertise and problem-solving capabilities in difficult construction environments.
The completed infrastructure provides the essential foundation for a significant distribution development, with high-quality roads, drainage systems, and utility provisions supporting the facility’s operations. Our ability to coordinate multiple disciplines—from earthworks and drainage to structures and utilities—enabled the seamless integration of these elements into a cohesive infrastructure package that met all client and regulatory requirements.