Red Lion Court
Bankside Southwark
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Desk Studies
We undertake desk studies to support planning applications on behalf of our Clients. The process is low-cost but offers a high-value return through the early identification of geotechnical and geo-environmental hazards.
We undertake desk studies to support planning applications on behalf of our Clients. The process is low-cost but offers a high-value return through the early identification of geotechnical and geo-environmental hazards.
The desk study findings then inform the design of intrusive ground investigation works to quantify the potential issues.
What do we include in our desk studies?
Our desk studies comprise a professional review of several sources of information. These include historical maps, Coal Authority records, geological maps, Local Authority information and more.
We review information from each source and consolidate the findings in the form of a conceptual model of the site.
We conduct site walkovers to confirm the current condition of the site and to validate some of the findings of the desk study; for example evidence of slope instability.
Why is a desk study important?
The simple answer is that most planning authorities require Phase 1 desk studies as part of any planning application! Desk studies can also be used to inform a land sale or acquisition by identifying risk at an early stage
However, the process is more than a box-ticking exercise! It can add significant value to a project, whilst helping save cost, as shown by the examples below.
- As part of a housing development, we reviewed historical maps which identified an old landfill on the site. We collaborated with the developer to amend the site layout, locating homes away from the landfill and placing recreational space above it instead.
- On another scheme involving a directional drill beneath a motorway, we developed a detailed ground model at the desk study phase. This saved the Client £20k, as further investigation works were not required.
What Our Clients Say
Matthew Hill – Project Manager, Southwark Council.
“Soiltechnics has provided a range of soil reports, ground investigation surveys, remediation strategies and verification reports for parks and open space improvement projects in Southwark. They have also provided clear and concise expert advice on ground/soil related issues which have occurred during the construction phase. Soiltechnics is a valued, reliable consultant we will continue to approach for similar schemes.”
Gavin Williams – Senior Pre Construction Surveyor, Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd.
“Having worked with Soiltechnics for almost ten years, they are considered a valued and trusted member of our Supply Chain whom we appoint with confidence knowing their services will be delivered to the highest standard. Soiltechnics form part of the Willmott Dixon Consultant Consortia having successfully completed a robust selection process which highlighted their ability to perform with the utmost professionalism in regards to customer service, value for money and site safety. It is trusted consultants like Soiltechnics who we can depend on in our pursuit to provide the perfect product for our customers.”
Nathan Pickering – Regional Operations Lead, Vision Survey.
“Vision Survey has worked with Soiltechnics for several years, initially forging a strong working relationship with their Manchester office, which has since expanded to include our respective southern offices. We appreciate their excellent professional conduct, their collaborative working approach and ultimately, in knowing that we can rely on them to meet our requirements.“
Get in touch with us
We work with clients of all sizes, from developers, building contractors, private companies, local authorities and individuals, on a wide variety of projects spanning major infrastructure, commercial, residential, educational, land development and restoration.