PRODUCT CHALLENGES
HIGH-PRESSURE GAS MAIN
The site encompasses a high-pressure gas main, necessitating a collaborative effort with the gas company, Cadent. ECL has seamlessly executed watching briefs during close operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols. All staff have undergone comprehensive toolbox talks, highlighting logistical intricacies. Additionally, a strategic easement has been established to mitigate any potential close proximity risks.
SECTION S278 WORKS
The section S278 works needed multiple phasings in order to access all areas of work, ECL have worked with the local council to determine the best times for these closures in order to cause the least possible disruption to residents and road users, with works being carried out at night and on weekends to avoid peak traffic times.
LV & HV CABLING INFRASTRUCTURE
Embodied within the scheme was the laying of new HV ducting between the temporary Ring Main Unit to supply electricity to the ten substations on-site.
To support this, significant off-site work was required to bring the HV cabling into the new development.
With the city of Leicester hitting electrical capacity, the initial solution was to take power from the King Power substation, which was 3 miles away from the development.
At face value, this looked to be a promising resolution; however, with the number of roads, bridges and traffic management space required, the disruption and works to facilitate connectivity made the solution counter-productive.
The compromise and agreed best option for the development was then to source the new HV cabling from Loughborough. The area of Loughborough is less populated, with a considerable amount of greenfield space. The route meant ducting under the M1 in a single location, but even with this minor complication, it has been agreed by all as the most viable route for the project.
The project team continue to liaise with the local authority and statutory bodies to schedule the remaining works as we progress through 2024.
We are now working through the build components of a primary substation and off-site ducting works being built as part of the scheme.
SURFACE WATER
ECL has dealt with significant rainfall during the project and constructed temporary haul roads so as not to damage the permanent formation works.
BADGER SETTS
Badger setts were identified onsite. ECL has worked carefully around these, constructing heras fenced areas to stop construction traffic near these areas in order to preserve their habitat.
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC
ECL has had to maintain pedestrian traffic throughout the job, which has been problematic due to the lack of power to the site. Safety for everyone is our top priority, and we have put up temporary tower lights and temporary road crossings in order to maintain constant safe pedestrian access.
PROJECT INNOVATION
TOP PERFORMANCE WITH THIS NEW ECO-FRIENDLY MACHINE
We introduced the latest eco-friendly machine to site; the Kobelco SK140 SRLC-7 side drain excavator marks a significant leap in innovation for construction. This cutting-edge excavator brings unparalleled efficiency and precision to excavation projects. The excavator streamlines operations and enhances productivity, empowers operators to navigate tight spaces with ease, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging environments. Allowing the excavator to be able to operate in relatively confined spaces such as road closures. This innovation not only boosts project timelines but also sets a new standard for excavator versatility, making it an invaluable asset to get superior results.
Whilst sitting on the road base, we were able to dig out the dimensions of the path before filling the area with stone and grading it off. Whilst working alongside the kerb-race team, we were able to lift and position the machine with ease before feeding the hopper with ready-mixed concrete as it crept its way forward. With the machine moving forward, the operator was able to keep feathering the material into the hopper without the need to turn a track just by tweaking the angle of the boom and angling the bucket to allow the material to drop into the machine.
POWERING PROGRESS: INITIATIVE WITH HVO FUEL FOR SUSTAINABLE PROJECT MANAGEMENT
In our ongoing commitment to sustainability, we are proud to implement HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel in our on-site plant machinery. This eco-friendly alternative significantly reduces carbon emissions, contributing to our broader goal of minimising the company’s environmental impact. By embracing HVO fuel, we not only prioritise the health of the planet but also foster positive change within the local community. The use of this sustainable fuel not only benefits the environment by lowering our carbon footprint but also enhances the overall well-being of the communities where our projects operate. It’s a small step with a big impact, aligning with our dedication to responsible practices and a greener future.
