Case Study

Stonehaven Flood Defence, Aberdeenshire


Aberdeenshire

Van Elle were appointed by McLaughlin & Harvey to carry out crucial flood defence works.

Project Background

  • Appointed by McLaughlin & Harvey
  • The project scope included the installation of 345No. 600mm, 211No. 450mm and 35No. 300mm drilled piles installed up to 12m, supporting the construction of a new flood defence wall.

Challenges

Working adjacent to the riverbank presented tight spatial constraints, requiring the mobilisation of small rigs specifically selected to operate within the restricted area. These limitations created logistical challenges for the delivery and movement of plant and materials while maintaining safe and uninterrupted access for nearby residents.

The ground conditions demanded careful control to ensure pile alignment, particularly under wet conditions and during periods of flooding.

Van Elle Solutions

Due to the complex geology in the ground, the team adopted multiple technique solutions with a combination of drilled and sectional flight auger (SFA) piling where required. Given the sensitivity of the site, it was essential to minimise risks of contamination or disturbance to the river nearby. The confined working environment necessitated meticulous planning and precise execution to uphold both operational efficiency and site safety.

At a Glance

Sector: Flood Defence

Solutions: SFA and Drilled Piling

Client: McLaughlin and Harvey

Van Elle Division: Specialist Piling

Equipment Used: Klemm 709, Klemm 709 3G and Hutte 205