In June 2022, VolkerGround Engineering commenced works on the West Kirby Flood Alleviation Scheme, for client VolkerStevin who are working on behalf of the Environment Agency and Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council. The purpose of the project is to improve the flood defences and promenade area.
Utilising our 38 tonne Volvo excavator, equipped with SG75 Movax, VolkerGround Engineering installed 529 no. 324mm diameter steel tubular piles, with lengths ranging between 9.5 metres and 19 metres, which formed the foundations for the new 1.1km flood wall. The design required the front line of piles to be installed vertically with the back line installed on a rake.
During the works, part of a sandstone wall was discovered that is believed to have been part of the original Hoylake Baths structure, dating back to 1913. This will be left in place and built over to provide part of the foundations to the new open space, which will be formed at the old baths site.
With the works taking place in close proximity to residential and public areas, the team put measures in place to mitigate risks to members of the public and employees. Daily road closures were put in place to accommodate access and egress from site and to allow the works to be carried out safely. VolkerGround Engineering also created an exclusion zone along West Kirby beach to prevent public access, and to ensure a safe working distance between members of the public and the working areas. In addition, VolkerGround Engineering installed a marine floating boom along West Kirby Lake to prevent boats from encroaching onto the working area, and to provide mitigation against any potential contamination of the watercourse.
In areas where the ground conditions were not as expected, the installation was continually reviewed to ensure compliance with the design.
VolkerGround Engineering delivered the piling works exceeding production targets and with an exemplary health and safety record, testament to the hard work and efficiency of the team.
Comment by Marc Wood, Site Agent “I would happily work with VolkerGround Engineering again, every man on site performed above my expectations and are a credit to the business”