A major slope stabilisation initiative is currently underway in Clifton following the partial collapse of an embankment in 2020. In the aftermath of the incident, temporary safety measures were swiftly implemented in 2021 while detailed planning for a long-term solution was undertaken.
The current phase of construction involves stabilising the embankment with mesh reinforced sprayed concrete facing secured to the slope with ground anchors, commonly known as soil nails. A state-of-the-art MC 3D Comacchio drilling rig, imported from Italy, is being deployed for this purpose. This rig, with a standalone power pack, is ideally suited to lateral support work where elevated access is required, being hoisted onto a purpose-built scaffold platform using a mobile crane, allowing it to drill the anchors into the slope with precision. In addition to the anchoring work, the slope is being reshaped and the drainage infrastructure upgraded to mitigate the risk of future erosion.
Once the engineering works are completed, select sections of the concrete wall will be finished with natural sandstone cladding, in harmony with the surrounding landscape. The project also includes the full reinstatement of existing services.
