Site remediation paves the way for London Dockland homes

Galleons Point at North Woolwich in London Docklands is a five-hectare, residential

redevelopment being carried out by Fairview New Homes. On completion, in 2002,

it will provide a range of two-bed riverview apartments, three- and four-bed

townhouses and two-bed apartments.

Industrial uses

Over the years the site has previously been used for a variety of industrial

processes. Initial preparation involved the demolition of concrete slabs, and

breaking out old foundation structures.

Whenever suitable, all demolition material is being recycled and incorporated

into the permanent work. Natta’s past experience of similar contracts has shown

that this reuse of material is best for the client and helps to minimise the

overall cost of ground preparation.

Treatment of the contaminated areas include lime stabilisation of existing

soils in readiness for piling mats and the decontamination and removal of hazardous

and special wastes.

Excavated spoil

Over 40,000 m³ of spoil was excavated as part of the construction for the basements

to the flats.

In addition, there has been extensive excavation for the road sewers and deep

drainage through unstable ground which, in itself, required specialist treatment

before the estate roads and external works could be constructed. There is also

some off-site highway construction required to improve road access to the development.

Finally, Natta is responsible for the construction of all foundations up to

damp proof course .