Introduction.
The purpose of this method statement is to provide guidance on the required works to the
existing retaining wall identified on drawing 0860/09.
A full investigation by a Qualified Structural Engineer will be required prior to any works
commencing on the retaining wall.
This method statement document noted above should be read in conjunction with the
tree protection plan ref. 0860/09. Any discrepancies between this information and current
conditions on site should be reported to the Client immediately.
In order for tree and root protection procedures to work effectively all personnel
associated with the construction process must be familiar with the tree protection
procedures. A copy of this document should be supplied at time of tender. The client
should provide a copy of this document to all potential contractors and site purchasers,
for consideration as part of the ongoing project information.
Development description.
The proposed development is located at 90 Springhill Road Burntwood. The proposal is for the
erection of 3 number bungalows, formation of new access and parking, plus landscape and
Troyka Associates ltd.
pathways. There is additional works to the existing property on the site, plus reconstruction of
retaining walls provision of new fencing to plot boundaries.
Current status of wall.
Reference letter provided by Mr R Heliwell, dated January 2008.
The adjacent ground to Springhill Road is approx 1.2m higher in level off the road and footway.
The change in level is currently faced by a retaining wall consisting of miscellaneous stones and
Pieces of concrete. This wall is in a degrading condition and some stones and mortar have been
coming away from the structure for a while.
The retaining wall will need to be replaced with a new wall, details of which will need to be
provided by a Qualified Structural Engineer. However the location of the wall and its proximity to
the proposed retained trees, will require extreme care to be taken in the walls re construction.
A number of trees in proximity to the wall are scheduled for removal but tree ref.T1,T2,T4, T9,
and T11 will be remaining. It is the methodology of removing the wall and replacing it around
these trees that is the primary concern of this document.
Construction requirements.
Removal.
Following assessment by a qualified Engineer. The wall will need to be dismantled by hand.
Paying close attention to the construction exclusion zone noted on drawing 0860/09.
The wall will have to be dismantled from the pavement site of the site. And the relevant permits
should be sought by the contractor to ensure protection for the public, continued pedestrian
access and suitable Highways notification and barriers are in place.
We refer you to below requirements of high ways legislation.
Method of dismantling.
The existing wall will need to be dismantled by hand to ensure the minimum of disturbance to the
roots of the trees to remain on the site.
Any temporary propping of existing soil must be discussed with the Local Council, and approved
prior to installation.
Proposed New Wall.
It is proposed that the reinstated wall will be rebuilt on new foundations. The wall is to be
designed to sit vertical to its foundations at the outer edge of the site demise, rather than its
current negative cant towards the site. This is to allow an easing of the root structure that may
exist to the rear of the wall and allow the existing roots to remain unharmed rather than any
cutting back.
Cutting back of tree roots should be resisted at all costs, as this will harm the remaining trees.
Proposed New Foundations.
It is currently not possible to confirm the precise foundation construction as this will be advised by
the engage engineers, however it is estimated that the minimum requirements will be footings at
approximately 300mm below level of footway and extending at least 600mm into the site. This will
inevitable cause some disturbance to the existing root system.
The foundation work will therefore also need to be carried out by hand. It is imperative that any
tree roots over 25mm diameter are severed cleanly with a sharp saw, this process gives the root
the maximum amount of assistance in order to recover from the damage done to it.
General statements.