Context

SoluForm above and below water pre-filled concrete bagwork has been used to restore a stream embankment near Dundee that had progressively deteriorated over the years due to extensive flooding and run-off from the adjacent agricultural fields.

Challenge

The client sought a solution to provide peace of mind and minimise the risk of future flooding, as the high water levels posed a significant threat of the stream overflowing its walled embankment. Over the past two winters, the situation had worsened considerably due to flooding and extensive run-off from the farmer's field, as the stream had burst its banks further upstream and crossed the farmland.

A stream flows behind the houses in the area, running adjacent to a road past the Old School House and beneath the road. The neighbour across the stream aimed to preserve the wall to prevent his garden from eroding due to run-off from a nearby field. The garden of the Old School House ends at the stream, which is deep and lined with retaining walls. Over time, the stream's movement has led to erosion along the wall and beneath the brickwork.

Solution

SoluForm's innovative lined bagwork is crafted from natural, renewable and sustainable resources. No specialised equipment or pumps are needed to fill or place the bagwork. This highly adaptable system allowed the site personnel to adjust to design changes, install or navigate unforeseen obstacles.

The prefilled concrete bagwork was strategically positioned around the base and foundation of the wall, to provide the essential structural support required to ensure the foundation's stability and durability.

The stream was cleared of all debris and collapsed blockwork. The base of the stream was laid with underwater bags, to provide a stable flat surface that was even. All scour holes were underpinned with the bags and above water bags were build to replace the fallen retaining walls that had failed.

The weight of each bag supplied is 20kg which can be handled by a single person, and easily carried to the installation site.

The U-shaped galvanised 8mm pins, specifically designed to use between the rows of bagwork, also brought further durability to the installation providing additional stability. This enabled a swift and timely installation.

Outcome

Eight months after the installation, it was observed that the underwater bags on the stream bed had mostly degraded, revealing the cement block, which now resembles a limestone-paved waterway. Since the project, plants and algae have re-established themselves, and the stream bed is beginning to green up. Fish, frogs and birds have all returned to the area.

Additionally, work on the field-side bank has been completed to minimise run-off during heavy rain and flooding.

The client is very pleased and reassured by the application, knowing that his house is now protected from future flooding.