CHC were appointed in 2023 as the earthworks subcontractor for remediation works to Plots 2 and 3 of the old Stanton pipe factory in Ilkeston, preparing the land for commercial development and access roads. A drone was used to carry out the topographical surveys during the project. This was successfully trialled and then used on a weekly basis to accurately measure the earthworks.
On Plot 3, works began with vegetation removal and site clearance, followed by remediation, cut‑to‑fill earthworks of around 600,000m³. Fill material was hauled, placed, and compacted using our in house A40 dumpers, excavators, dozers and PIR roller, which validated the compaction of every 1m thick layer. Oversized obstructions and unusable material, including concrete, peat and surplus materials were segregated and stockpiled. All concrete obstructions excavated were processed through a crusher to produce reusable 6F2 material.
Plot 2 was instructed following completion of Plot 3 and followed a similar scope, with around 490,000m³ of cut‑to‑fill earthworks undertaken. Large concrete structures were broken out using 75t excavators fitted with hydraulic breakers. The same haul, place and compact methodology was used, with unusable material removed and concrete obstructions crushed to create 6F2. This 6F2 was then transported and placed along proposed areas to form sub‑base layers for the new permanent access roads into site.
Throughout the project, the PIR roller played a key role in controlling and measuring the level of compaction of every level, validating the CBR value for the final report. Excavators, dumpers and dozers were used throughout to deliver a cut‑to‑direct‑fill strategy, avoiding unnecessary double handling. The use of lime or cement was not an option due to sulphur levels found in ground contamination. All soft spots were removed and replaced with more suitable material, and surface tolerances of +/- 50mm were achieved using GPS equipped dozers.
