Case Study: Loft Lines Development – Titanic Quarter, Belfast
Project Overview
The Loft Lines development, located in the heart of Titanic Quarter, Belfast, consists of three major residential blocks with integrated green space. As part of the site preparation works, an extensive ground investigation was required to ensure safe development and to manage environmental risks in line with regulations.
Initial Challenge
An initial assessment identified a potential hazardous waste classification for the soils, with approximately 24,000m³ of material identified for disposal. This classification presented a significant challenge: disposal costs of hazardous soils are extremely high, with the potential to impact project budgets and timescales severely.
Our Approach
To address this, we undertook an enhanced site investigation utilising a 20m grid throughout the development area, offering a detailed ground characterisation. This comprehensive approach involved:
- A systematic approach to sampling to determine soil characterisation across the site to the reduced level.
- Laboratory testing to determine precise contamination levels.
- Classification of soils into inert, non-hazardous and hazardous categories.
By gathering detailed data, we were able to create a more accurate picture of ground conditions, enabling a remediation strategy to be developed.
Results
The enhanced investigation facilitated a significant reduction in predicted contaminated soils, equating to just 6.75% of original estimations.
This findings and PWS’ supervision of the groundworks, delivered substantial benefits:
- Significant reduction in disposal volumes of non-hazardous and hazardous waste soils.
- Significant cost savings on disposal and transport.
- Minimised environmental impact through reduced landfill requirements.
- De-risking of the project, allowing construction to proceed with confidence.
- Supporting the client’s sustainability targets.
Conclusion
Through robust investigation and evidence-based classification, we transformed the outlook for the Loft Lines development. Our approach reduced predicted contaminated soil volumes by over 93%, unlocking savings and enabling progress on one of Belfast’s most significant regeneration projects.
