Illuminating the Underground at a Local Leisure Centre
The Challenge: Operating in the Dark
When planning a new project or expansion at an active public facility, knowing exactly what lies beneath the surface is critical. Our client, working on a development project at a local leisure centre, faced a significant roadblock: they had absolutely no idea or confirmation regarding the site's existing underground drainage infrastructure.
Without accurate utility records, moving forward meant risking costly utility strikes, severe project delays, and potential environmental hazards. They needed a clear, accurate picture of the subterranean landscape before any ground could be broken.
Our Solution: PAS 128 Utility Locate
To eliminate the guesswork, our team was brought in to conduct a comprehensive PAS 128 utility survey.
The PAS 128 standard ensures the highest level of accuracy and reliability in utility mapping.
Our approach included:
Thorough Site Investigation: Utilizing advanced electromagnetic locating and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to trace non-conductive and conductive utilities.
Drain and Manhole Discovery: Physically locating, lifting, and inspecting manhole covers—including those that had been completely buried over time.
Sonding and Tracing: Deploying sonde transmitters through the drainage pipes to precisely track the route, depth, and connectivity of the underground network.
System Identification: Confirming the flow and type of drainage, successfully identifying combined stormwater and sewer lines.
The Results: Clarity and Confidence
We successfully transformed a total unknown into a fully documented asset. We were able to locate the drains, pinpoint the manholes, and give the client the precise spatial data they needed.
As showcased in the deliverable file image_3c8981.png, we provided the client with a highly detailed, easy-to-read topographic and utility CAD drawing.
Key features of our deliverable included:
Precise Routing: Clear color-coded lines detailing the exact path of 150mm, 300mm, and 450mm diameter pipes.
Photographic Evidence: Real-time photos of the manhole interiors embedded directly into the drawing for immediate visual context.
Crucial Annotations: Detailed notes explaining site-specific challenges and findings, such as buried connection manholes and confirmed combined drainage flows.
Armed with this definitive map of their underground infrastructure, the client was able to safely bypass utility conflicts, finalize their design plans, and confidently continue their project without fear of the unknown.