The Challenge
Designing piled foundations and assessing potential environmental liabilities required deep, reliable ground data. However, restricted access in the basement meant traditional drilling approaches were not possible. The works had to be undertaken from ground level, directly through the former dance floor, while maintaining safe working conditions and minimising disruption.
The Solution
We advanced multiple cable percussive boreholes to depths of up to 35 metres, overcoming access and space limitations. Environmental and geotechnical samples were collected alongside in-situ strength testing to provide data for both contamination assessment and foundation design. Numerous trial pits were also excavated to further characterise shallow soils and existing structures.
Our team coordinated closely with the client’s design and demolition contractors to ensure efficient sequencing. Following demolition, we also undertook testing and classification of site-won crushed materials to support their sustainable re-use.
The Outcome
The investigation provided critical data to inform the hotel’s piled foundation design and to discharge environmental planning conditions. All interpretative reports were delivered within the client’s requested timeframe, enabling the development to progress without delay.
