Medmenham Court
Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire
We were contracted by IDC to deliver the substructure groundworks on this large domestic development.
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This project proved particularly engaging, with unique challenges stemming from the site's proximity to water.
Managing groundwater during multiple excavation phases highlighted the technical adaptability of our team and reinforced our capabilities in complex ground engineering environments.
Initial works
& site preparation
Following the departure of the demolition contractor, we took over site operations and prepared a substantial pile mat using arisings from the demolished structures. We also ensured the ground was stabilised and ready for piling operations.
Piling
support &
pre-RC works
We were tasked with assisting the piling contractor during pile installation.
While piling progressed, we:
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Excavated around the piles
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Cropped the piles to the required height
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Blinded the area in preparation for the reinforced concrete (RC) frame contractor.
Block and beam floor installation
After the piling phase, we returned to site to install the ground floor block and beam floor system, ensuring structural integrity and preparation for follow-on trades.
Drainage system installation
We implemented an extensive drainage scheme, which included:
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Foul and rainwater systems
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A large stormwater holding tank
Due to the seasonally high groundwater table, all drainage runs required concrete surrounds to prevent flotation. For the storm tank installation, we brought in a trusted specialist subcontractor to handle dewatering. A full concrete surround was then installed to ensure the tank remained stable once groundwater levels returned.
Embankment backfilling & ground stabilisation
We were also responsible for backfilling the embankment around the property.
To complete this phase, we deployed a range of equipment:
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An 8-ton excavator with a tilt rotator was used for backfilling land drains along the curved wall
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A 13-ton excavator handled the majority of bulk earthworks
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In inaccessible areas, spoil was backfilled manually or with smaller machinery.
After a settling period, we installed geocell matting to stabilise the slopes and prevent soil movement. A long-reach excavator then placed topsoil across the embankment, ready for final planting.
