08 October 2008

CMS Specialist Geotechnical Solutions has helped prevent flooding at Europe’s largest bonded warehouse in Bristol, by specifying and supplying its Slope-Guard erosion control matting to protect embankments surrounding an open-air water attenuation system. Developed by contractor, Fitzpatrick, for Constellation Europe Limited, the sustainable system required the specification of high performance and environmentally sound materials.

The new 42 acre site consists of a large warehouse, production centre as well as associated office buildings. Committed to responsible business practice, Constellation demanded an ecologically friendly solution that would protect its investment by preventing the overflow of nearby waterways.

To achieve effective water attenuation, Fitzpatrick constructed a 600m rhine system and a large balancing pond, measuring approximately 70,000m2. An ‘earth friendly’ solution then had to be sourced to protect the system over time.

Following consultation with CMS, Fitzpatrick installed 26,500m2 of Slope-Guard Type 5 erosion control matting, which was used to reinforce embankments surrounding the new open-air drainage facility. As a lightweight material, Slope-Guard offered Fitzpatrick the benefits of being easy to handle on-site and time-efficient to install.

Lee Forster, project manager, Fitzpatrick Contractors, explains: “Slope-Guard’s quick and easy installation has helped us to complete this project to schedule. Unaffected by heavy rain bombardment, the durability of Slope-Guard will be crucial in maintaining the efficient performance of the open-air attenuation systems.”

Manufactured from a combination of coir and straw, Slope-Guard Type 5 is completely natural and biodegradable, making it a thoroughly sustainable choice. Furthermore, the permeability of the material protects the natural environment by facilitating vegetation growth.

Designed with a lifespan of one to five years, Slope-Guard Type 5 allows sufficient time for vegetation to establish firm roots, before decomposing and merging with the soil beneath, after which the plant-life will provide organic reinforcement.

Richard Longbottom, technical sales director, CMS Specialist Geotechnical Solutions, concludes: “The Slope-Guard range combines high performance with strong environmental credentials. It is extremely robust, providing effective stabilisation in virtually all conditions and allows developers to enhance the aesthetics of the natural landscape by offering an excellent climate for plants to grow.”

Available in a range of natural and permanent materials, Slope-Guard can also be supplied pre-seeded to deliver maximum sustainability

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