Ground Engineering

The nature and intrinsic variability of the ground represents a constant concern for clients during the development process.

Responding to all geotechnical challenges with flexibility, we are adept at optimising infrastructure earthworks, with particular expertise in the design of motorway widening schemes and embankment construction over deep soft deposits. We offer a one-stop ground engineering and design service for all types of structures on brownfield and greenfield sites, with coordinated treatment of contamination and foundation issues.

Gifford’s Geotechnics team removes uncertainty by thoroughly investigating and interpreting the condition of the ground required to support structures or earthworks. This leads to a reduced chance of cost increases and time over-runs which are likely to occur when designers characterise ground conditions inadequately.

Our wide-ranging experience and expertise also encompasses:

• Advanced geotechnical analysis, including three-dimensional finite difference methods, with particular application to ground movements around deep excavations and tunnels
• Design of ground improvement and support systems including soil nails and anchors, and reinforced soils and embankments
• Forensic analysis, instrumentation and monitoring, together with associated expert reports
• Geotechnical assessment and foundation renewal for aspects of heritage structures and earthworks projects
• Slope stability studies and remediation design, including innovative combinations of available techniques

Capabilities include:

• Advanced geotechnical analysis
• Contamination monitoring
• Contamination risk assessment
• Design and management of site investigations
• Earthworks and ground improvement
• Expert witness services
• Foundations and retaining structures
• Geo environmental desk studies
• Geohazard risk appraisal
• Geomorphological services
• Ground engineering for seismic conditions
• Ground engineering strategies for development
• Ground movement monitoring
• Groundwater management
• Remediation strategies
• Remediation validation
• Rock engineering
• Slopes and landslides
• Underground structures