HWM Envirosoil was commissioned by Cove Homes, based in Aldershot, Hampshire, to carry out soil improvement works at their housing development site in Swallowfield, near Reading. The project site was a greenfield area where ground conditions necessitated piling, and consequently, a suitable pile mat was essential for the piling rig. Due to limited access and suboptimal ground conditions, soil stabilisation was chosen as the preferred method, significantly reducing the need for lorry movements to and from the site.
Initial testing confirmed that the soils were suitable for treatment, with no elements present that would hinder the process. The soil was found to be granular and well-graded, allowing cement to be used as the binding agent. The project commenced in late September 2024 and, despite being challenged by heavy rainfall, was completed on schedule to enable the start of the piling phase.
The treated soil achieved CBR (California Bearing Ratio) values exceeding 15%, ensuring the necessary strength for piling operations. An additional abrading layer was applied to the stabilised material to safeguard it against potential damage from the movement of the piling rig tracks.
Key benefits for the client and project included:
- Cost savings: Typically a 50% reduction compared to off-site soil disposal and the importation of suitable materials.
- Reduced traffic: The rural location and planning conditions limited lorry traffic. The stabilisation method led to 300 fewer lorry movements.
- Environmental advantages: Reduced vehicle traffic decreased carbon emissions.
- Soil conservation: All soil was retained on-site, eliminating the need for landfill disposal and the use of quarried materials.