by Kyle Molyneux | Fri 23 Oct 2020
Van Elle kicks off HS2 contract
Van Elle, a UK ground engineering contractor, has started its first ground improvement contract on HS2. Working with a Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, Van Elle will be utilising its vibro piling techniques to provide extensive embankment support, enabling the first phase of construction in north west London. Van Elle will install more than 4,000 600mm vibro stone columns between Gatemead and West Ruislip to strengthen the ground ahead of further construction. The project also involves field trials and probing exercise at each section in advance of the main works. Work is expected last until Spring 2021.
Meanwhile, Van Elle’s specialist ground investigation company, Strata Geotechnics, is also delivering on HS2 as it works with RPS Group on the C3 section of the project. Strata is currently working on the Brackley to South Portal of Long Itchington Wood Green Tunnel area of HS2, providing borehole drilling and window sampling support to RPS with work expected to continue until Christmas.
According to Van Elle's website, vibro stone columns are a quick and cost-effective alternative to piling and grouting when building on large areas of weak ground. Vibro columns do not produce spoil and tend to be shorter than piles.
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