M42 Horizontal Directional Drilling

M42 Project Overview

The scheme consisted of the diversion of several overhead electricity cables into underground ducts. These ducts pass beneath the M42 motorway and A45 dual carriageway close to the NEC Birmingham. The diversion works were required as part of enabling works for a highway scheme focused on the improvement of Junction 6 of the M42.

Scope of Works

We were required to provide geotechnical consultancy throughout the lifecycle of the project, which included:

• Obtaining certification from National Highways in accordance with CD 622.
• Detailed desk study including scoping of further works.
• Ground investigation works.
• Selection of appropriate crossing methodology with accompanying settlement calculations (HDD up to 240m long)
• Real-time review of monitoring data during construction with daily feedback to National Highways.

Value Added

After undertaking a detailed desk study we were able to scope a targeted ground investigation. This saved the Client circa £10k against the original proposals.

Building on lessons learned on a similar scheme we collaborated with the Client’s surveyor to establish a suitable monitoring regime. This involved no lane closures or physical infrastructure within the highway. We further developed an innovative and cost-effective way of transferring monitoring data in the field back to the office. This allowed real-time review by all parties and reduced on-site supervision requirements, which in turn saved costs.