Site Preparation

Topsoil stripping removes the vegetative layer so it can be stockpiled for landscaping. Reduced-level dig excavates to the required formation level. We deliver both to prepare the site for foundations and hardstanding.

Ground investigation identifies the strata, groundwater and contamination risk. Trial pits and boreholes provide samples for lab testing. The report informs foundation design. We use the report to deliver foundations; we can recommend investigation contractors.

Lime or cement can be mixed into wet or weak soils to improve strength and workability. Stabilisation is used for subgrades, access and sometimes to allow shallow foundations. We deliver stabilisation to the design and specification.

Vibro stone columns improve soft or marginal ground by inserting columns of compacted stone. They can allow shallow foundations or reduce settlement. We install vibro stone columns to the design and provide verification.

A utility survey locates buried services so excavation can be planned safely. CAT and GPR are common methods. We plan our excavation from the survey; we do not carry out the survey ourselves but recommend you have one before we start.

Retaining walls hold back soil and create level changes. They can be block, concrete or reinforced. The structural engineer specifies the type and design. We build retaining walls to design with drainage and certification.

Access roads allow plant and deliveries to reach the site. They can be temporary (stone, type 1) or permanent (tarmac, block). We construct access roads as part of enabling works or as a standalone package.

Demolition removes existing structures; clearance removes the debris and prepares the site. We can coordinate demolition and clearance or work with your demolition contractor to then clear and prepare the site for new build.

Temporary drainage diverts surface water and keeps excavations dry during construction. We install temporary runs, sumps and pumps as part of enabling works so the site can be worked in all weathers.

Cut and fill balance aims to use excavated material on site where possible, reducing muck-away and import. We plan excavation and placement from your levels and design to achieve the best balance and programme.

Site fencing and hoardings secure the site and protect the public. They are often part of enabling works. We install fencing and hoardings to the required standard and programme.

Bulk excavation removes large volumes of soil for basements, swimming pools or level changes. We deliver bulk excavation with proper support where needed and manage spoil and disposal.

Construction plant needs suitable access. We assess access when quoting and advise on temporary roads, gates and restrictions. We use smaller plant where access is limited.

Strip foundation excavation digs to the formation level specified by the structural engineer. We excavate to the correct depth and width, manage water and leave a clean formation for concrete.

A piling platform is a level, stable area that supports the piling rig. We construct platforms from type 1 or similar to the required bearing capacity. This is often part of enabling works before piling.

On contaminated sites, we may strip and remove contaminated material or encapsulate it under clean cover. We work from the remediation strategy and design, with correct handling and disposal documentation.

Site clearance often includes tree removal and stump grinding. We can coordinate with arboriculturists where trees are protected, and deliver clearance so the site is ready for construction.

A pre-site meeting aligns the groundworks sequence with the design, programme and other trades. We attend to agree access, phasing and handover so that groundworks run smoothly and the next phase can start on time.

When cut does not balance fill, we import material (type 1, selected fill) and place and compact it to specification. We deliver to the design with compaction testing where required.

Service trenches carry drainage, water, gas and other utilities. We excavate trenches to the specified depth and fall, then backfill after the services are laid. We work from your layout and utility survey.

When excavation is close to buried services, we use hand dig or small plant to expose and protect them. We work from the utility survey and expose services before mechanical dig continues.

A site compound provides welfare, storage and sometimes office space. We can set up compounds as part of enabling works, including fencing, cabins and services.

A topographical survey records existing levels and features. We use levels for setting out and for verifying formation and finished levels. We do not carry out the survey; we work from the surveyor's data.