The Challenge
Persistent surface water accumulation at a busy site entrance was creating operational challenges and increasing health and safety risks for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
The existing drainage infrastructure was struggling to efficiently capture and manage rainfall runoff, leading to localized flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. In addition to the drainage concerns, sections of the surrounding surface had deteriorated, creating potential trip hazards and affecting the overall condition of the entrance area.
The client required a long-term solution that would improve surface water management, enhance site safety, and restore the entrance to a durable, professional standard.
Our Solution
Following a site assessment, we developed a remediation plan centred around upgrading the existing drainage infrastructure and improving the surrounding surface finishes.
The project included:
- Installation of upgraded ACO channel drainage systems
- Installation of additional yard gullies for enhanced surface water collection
- Renewal of surrounding concrete areas
- Reconstruction of affected tarmac surfaces
- Reinstatement of the work area to a safe and operational condition
The objective was not only to resolve the immediate flooding concerns but also to improve the site’s resilience against future weather events.
Planning and Preparation
Before excavation and installation works commenced, our team implemented a detailed site preparation process.
The work area was carefully marked out and underground service information reviewed to minimise risks associated with existing utilities. Service detection surveys were undertaken to verify the location of buried assets, ensuring the planned works could proceed safely.
Site barriers and exclusions were established where required, creating a controlled working environment while maintaining safe site operations.
Drainage Infrastructure Upgrades
The core element of the project involved the installation of upgraded surface water collection systems.
Existing surfaces were saw cut and prepared to accommodate new drainage channels and gullies. The channel drains were carefully installed and bedded on high-strength concrete to provide a robust and long-lasting solution capable of withstanding the demands of a busy operational environment.
The new drainage infrastructure was strategically positioned to improve the collection and conveyance of surface water, reducing the likelihood of ponding and flooding at the site entrance.
Where required, sub-base improvements were carried out to ensure the surrounding ground provided a stable foundation for the new drainage assets.
Surface Reinstatement Works
Once the drainage infrastructure had been installed, attention turned to restoring the surrounding surfaces.
Concrete reinstatement works were completed around the newly installed channels, ensuring a seamless finish that matched the existing environment while removing potential trip hazards.
The tarmac reinstatement phase was carried out during evening working hours to minimise disruption to site operations. This carefully planned approach allowed the client to maintain business continuity throughout the project.
The works included:
- Grinding and preparation of the existing surface
- Excavation and removal of defective material
- Installation of an 80mm base course
- Installation of a 40mm surface course
- Mechanical compaction to achieve a durable finish
- Application of bitumen over-banding to protect joint integrity
The result was a strengthened, professionally finished surface capable of accommodating heavy vehicle traffic while improving the appearance of the entrance area.
The Outcome
The project was successfully completed over a phased programme of works, delivering a significant improvement in both drainage performance and site safety.
Key Benefits Delivered
- Improved collection and management of surface water
- Reduced risk of flooding at the site entrance
- Installation of upgraded ACO channel drainage
- Additional yard gullies to increase drainage capacity
- Removal of deteriorated surfaces and trip hazards
- High-quality concrete and tarmac reinstatement
- Enhanced access for vehicles and pedestrians
- Minimal disruption through carefully planned out-of-hours working
- Long-term improvement to site infrastructure
A More Resilient Entrance Environment
Surface water issues are often symptoms of inadequate drainage capacity or ageing infrastructure. By addressing both the drainage network and the surrounding surfaces as part of a single project, we provided a comprehensive solution rather than a temporary fix.
The upgraded drainage system now captures and directs water more effectively, while the renewed surfacing provides a safer and more durable environment for site users.
Why This Matters
Flooding at site entrances can lead to operational disruption, safety concerns, accelerated surface deterioration, and increased maintenance costs. Investing in effective drainage infrastructure helps protect assets, improve safety, and reduce the likelihood of future reactive repairs.
Through a combination of drainage upgrades, civil engineering expertise, and high-quality reinstatement works, we delivered a long-term solution that improved drainage performance, enhanced safety, and future-proofed a critical access area.
Services Delivered: Surface Water Management • ACO Channel Installation • Yard Gully Installation • Flood Remediation • Drainage Improvements • Tarmac Reinstatement • Concrete Repairs • Civil Engineering Works.
