The challenge of a slippery slope

17 April 2018
The B4058 at Horsley Hill, in the Cotswolds has for many years been synonymous with insecure land, sliding slopes and temporary narrowing of the road. Surrounded by steep sided woods, the road was regularly failing, and causing considerable inconvenience to road users.

Amey Consulting designed a scheme to provide a long term, and future proof solution for the client and road users alike.  Early in the design stage, a 3 dimensional model was created to illustrate the finished highway.  We project managed the scheme, from structures, highway and drainage design through to construction.  The challenging nature of the surrounding land required soil stabilisation and erosion control. The design dictated the installation of 94 L sections to support the road and provide a safety barrier, secured by 9 metre micropiles.  The scheme was completed with the installation of barriers and fencing.  

Collaborating to maximise value

Amey Consulting worked closely with the concrete manufacture throughout the design, ensuring considerable cost savings to our client. The design involved teams from across Amey Consulting and Amey, including Geotechnical engineering, Structures and Highway and Drainage designs.  The construction contractor was Graham Construction LTD.

Outcome

The scheme was very well received by Gloucestershire County Council and local residents, and won 'Best project under £1 million' at the 2018 Ground Engineering Awards, against impressive competition from eight other entries.

A time lapse of the scheme being built shows the various stages - see link to the right.