Reservoir Construction in Lancashire: Managing Ground Risk Through Real-Time Geotechnical Monitoring
Project Overview
A reservoir project in Lancashire experienced significant construction delays due to insufficient early-stage ground investigation. Key geotechnical assumptions were carried into the construction phase, transferring uncertainty and ground risk directly onto the works when actual site conditions did not align with the original ground investigation records.
The Challenge: Unexpected Ground Conditions and Programme Pressure
During piling operations, installed piles began prematurely refusing on rock, halting progress and placing immediate pressure on the construction programme. Works were suspended for five weeks while a safe and technically viable solution was developed. Throughout this period, site access remained constrained, requiring operatives and plant to continue working safely within a complex excavation environment.
Our Geotechnical and Temporary Works Response
Our role was to stabilise the situation and restore technical confidence on site. We implemented real-time geotechnical monitoring of the temporary propping system, enabling continuous tracking of ground movement and structural behaviour during excavation, backfilling, and cofferdam removal.
This live monitoring approach provided critical data to inform decision making, manage construction risk, and maintain safe working conditions despite evolving ground uncertainties.
The Outcome: Controlled Risk and Safe Project Delivery
With active monitoring and adaptive temporary works management in place, construction was able to safely restart following the period of disruption. Ground movements were effectively controlled, and risks were managed dynamically during the construction phase rather than relying on initial design assumptions that no longer reflected actual ground conditions.
This proactive, data-led approach ensured safe delivery of the reservoir works, demonstrating the value of robust geotechnical monitoring, flexible temporary works design, and responsive ground risk management when unexpected site conditions arise.
