The innovative use of Dynamic Compaction allowed the construction of a proposed new housing development upon up to 40m of colliery spoil.
![Dynamic compaction at Skelton Gate](/sites/keller-uk/files/styles/project_main_image/public/2023-01/foundations-skelton-gate-dynamic-compaction-housing.jpg?h=47f03659&itok=njh89Y_A)
The project
Hall Construction were carrying out site preparation to an area of 102,533m2 on the second phase at Skelton Gate to allow the construction of a new housing development. This included the construction of new roads and a bridge over the existing stream.
The challenge
The site is underlain by up to 40m of colliery spoil containing a high proportion of cobbles and boulders which would be impenetrable by standard piling methods.
The solution
Dynamic Compaction was carried out using a 12 tonne weight dropped from heights of 10-12m to provide an allowable bearing pressure of 80kN/m2. This innovative technique allowed for a treatment depth up to 8m. Hall Construction then carried out earthworks, placing engineered fill above the dynamic compaction works, therefore leading to a thickness of around 12-14m of improved ground. Raft foundations were then used to support houses. Gabion Walls were also installed by Phi Group to support the new access road to the site.