Remediation and enabling works to unlock the site of the former Caparo Engineering Works for development of over 252 social and private houses.
A complex mix of ground issues meant the site had sat derelict for over a decade since the factory’s closure.
These included: TPH-contaminated soils, mineworkings, deep made ground, extensive concrete obstructions and substructures, presence of Japanese Knotweed and mare’s tail, surface asbestos, and demolition of unsafe buildings.
Our team was already familiar with the site, having first provided technical consultation ten years ago.
This allowed us to quickly design a better value foundation solution for the client, value-engineering a cost-effective reinforced strip foundation, and removing need for piling.
We designed a new earthworks specification, which was approved by the NHBC, and agreed a phased handover with the regulator.
Using our 3DMC-enabled plant, we excavated, turned-over, and re-engineered over 4m of made ground soils below all plots, frontages, and roads, providing an engineered development platform compacted to 75MPa.
Re-compacted layers and compaction data were recorded in real-time using our intelligent dozers and roller. This was supported with a rigorous re-assurance geotechnical testing regime, giving full confidence to the NHBC.
Our team also bioremediated contaminated soils, removed over 10t of asbestos, and carried out demolition works adjacent to listed structures and neighbouring back gardens.
| Client | Anthem Lovell LLP |
| Site Area | 7ha |
| Value | ÂŁ2m (ÂŁ44m development value) |
| Location | Walsall |
Our technology and engineering team carried out extensive value engineering exercises on this project, which informed finished development levels. This ensured all site arisings could be incorporated within the development, eliminating off-site disposal of predominantly non-hazardous soils.
The site’s previous use as a steel forge, with significant machine bases, had left behind extensive hardstandings in the ground. By combining the removal of concrete with a turnover and re-compaction exercise, we achieved maximum recovery of recycled aggregates.
We screened and processed materials into 6F2 and high-grade MoT Type 1, which was certified by the local Highways Authority for use in road boxes.
All materials movements were recorded in real-time using 3DMC, providing data for final verification under the CL:AIRE DoW CoP.
As well as unlocking this long-derelict site for much-needed social and private homes, we’ve worked to make remediation as sustainable as possible.
Thanks to McAuliffe’s engineering expertise, 99% of material has been re-used on site. This has diverted waste from landfill, while achieving a more cost-effective foundation. A fantastic result.
