Developing Strategic Infrastructure for Greenfield Residential Development

Challenge

The rural site was subject to environmental and ecological constraints, including badgers, newts, watercourses and a main river. Zone 2 is on the site of a former quarry, which required remediation, including surcharging prior to construction.

The undulating topography of the site presented challenges for the drainage design, highway access and materials management. The development was delivered over several years to allow for the phased release of individual development parcels to different house builders.

The highway and drainage solutions had to work within these constraints to allow for the phased delivery and seasonal remediation works. The design also needed to be adaptable to facilitate changing priorities of parcel release. 

Solution

We maintained a core team throughout the project and developed a close working relationship with the client, their contractors, approving authorities and other consultants. This resulted in detailed knowledge of the scheme and how different design and phasing decisions have a knock-on effect. These insights were particularly useful in understanding the seasonal remediation works where the surcharge material will be used in the parcel earthworks.

Proposed waste material from the site was minimised through the proposed level design while ensuring vehicle access and facilitating drainage, including the installation of SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) features.

To overcome the challenges presented by the undulating site (Zone 2), we designed a sewer network around the site perimeter and away from residential parcels. We also designed a series of attenuation ponds to restrict the discharge to existing watercourses.

We delivered the alignment of the highway to fit the masterplan and comply with the Design Code. We liaised with the Local Highway Authority to make vehicle speeds enforceable through the design of the road while still permitting bus and refuse vehicle access.