Investigations: Etihad Campus, Manchester

The LK Group was commissioned by Manchester City Council via Civic Engineers to undertake ground and geotechnical investigations to deliver information on ground conditions, contamination, expansive slag and historical coal mining legacy at the Etihad Campus, Manchester. The location of utilities was a big risk, threatening the viability of the scheme. A gas main and sub-station on the site fed the stadium and nearby industrial buildings. The proposed development would comprise up to three new buildings, with adaption and repurposing of the existing buildings.

Manchester Etihad Stadium 1

KEY FACTS

Who
Manchester City Council / Civic Engineers
What
£160,000 Combined Investigation to further develop the site
Where
Victoria Street, fronting Manchester Cathedral
How long
20 weeks from breaking ground to issuing report
Outcome
Provided detailed information to facilitate the development and cost-effective solution was achieved

THE SOLUTION

Our investigation comprised several intrusive techniques: machine excavation, vacuum excavation, window sampling, cable percussive drilling and rotary open hole and cored drilling. Samples were subject to a range of laboratory testing – contamination, geotechnical and expansion testing of slags. We consulted with stakeholders, including Manchester City FC, Network Rail and TfGM, to ensure minimal disruption, ceasing our operations prior to sporting events.

THE BENEFIT OF OUR GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS

Results of the land remediation investigation allowed a cost-effective solution to be achieved regarding the siting and construction of the new buildings. All utilities were targeted within the vacuum extraction, allowing us to accurately map the line, location and depth of services, which ultimately informed the design, position and footprint of the proposed buildings.