This Dorset landslip remediation project showcases our deep understanding of geotechnical hazards and the importance of combining immediate stabilisation with permanent remediation.
Overview: Emergency Slope Stabilisation in Dorset
After a period of intense rainfall, a Dorset homeowner faced a serious structural threat when water cascaded down the raised bank behind their property.
The resulting hydraulic pressure caused the lower retaining wall, situated beside the conservatory and rear elevation of the house, to rotate forward, resting against both structures.
The failure of the retaining wall led to a soil slip, engulfing the elevated footpath above and adding even more pressure on the property.
While the main house remained structurally intact, the conservatory suffered severe deformation, with its UPVC framework and dwarf brickwork bowing inward under the immense load.
The Challenge: Protecting a Home Under Threat
This landslip presented multiple, complex challenges:
- A rotated retaining wall leaning on the house and conservatory.
- Compromised slope stability following heavy rainfall.
- Restricted access due to structural risks and limited working space.
- The need to prevent further damage during remediation.
Immediate action was essential to stabilise the slope, protect the homeowner’s property, and eliminate safety risks.
Phase 1: Emergency Stabilisation and Controlled Demolition
Our team swiftly mobilised to implement emergency stabilisation measures.
To secure the upper slope, temporary Platipus anchors and mesh were installed, providing crucial containment against further slippage.
Key steps in this phase included:
- Sealing openings between the house and conservatory with WPB boards to prevent access and secondary damage.
- Careful dismantling of the conservatory, including glazing, roof sheets, doors, and dwarf walls, to relieve pressure safely.
- Spoil removal to reduce load on the failing structure.
These emergency works stabilised the situation and created a safe working platform for permanent remediation.
Phase 2: Permanent Slope Remediation and Structural Reinforcement
With the immediate danger controlled, our team of expert engineers designed and installed a three-tiered Shire Sheet Pile system to permanently stabilise the slope.
This innovative design featured:
- A top row of 4m-deep CHS posts at 0.25m centres, engineered to resist loads from potential agricultural machinery above.
- Middle and bottom tiers with 2.5m-deep CHS posts at 0.5m centres, supporting 1m-deep sheet piles.
- A terraced configuration that evenly distributed earth pressures and provided long-term slope stability.
This multi-level solution not only strengthened the embankment but also improved surface drainage and reduced the risk of future movement.
Engineering Excellence: A Tailored, Two-Phase Approach
The Dorset landslip remediation demonstrates our capability to deliver rapid, engineered responses under challenging conditions.
By combining emergency measures with precision-engineered permanent works, the project ensured:
- Immediate property protection from collapse.
- Long-term slope stabilisation using proven geotechnical techniques.
- Minimal environmental impact, through controlled removal and staged reconstruction.
This case study underscores our commitment to technical excellence, safety, and client reassurance in every project.
Project Outcome: Safety Restored, Home Protected
Thanks to our timely intervention and expertise:
- The slope and retaining structure were fully stabilised.
- The property was secured, preventing further damage.
- A long-term engineered solution was delivered with minimal disruption to the homeowner.
The project highlights the importance of rapid mobilisation and multi-phase engineering design when managing residential landslip emergencies.
Key Project Insights
This Dorset landslip remediation project showcases our deep understanding of geotechnical hazards and the importance of combining immediate stabilisation with permanent remediation.
Through innovative design and careful execution, the project:
- Restored structural stability to the property.
- Prevented further ground movement.
- Enhanced safety for the homeowner and the surrounding area.
- Demonstrated Shire’s ability to deliver complex works under time-sensitive and spatially constrained conditions.
