Anyone who has undertaken any form of building project knows that unexpected challenges can occur during construction.
We were blind sided by our recent nasty surprise!
While excavating the car parking area, our ground construction team discovered an aberrant large diameter pipe 2m below the surface. This was not marked on any formal plan and was completely unbeknown to the authorities.
After a lot of head scratching, this turned out to be a relic of the old Eaton hydraulic ram manufacturing factory that was demolished nearly 25 years ago. After diligent evaluation, it was discovered that this pipe was no longer in use but carried a thin residue of oily sludge lying along the bottom.
Our planning conditions stated that if potential hazardous material was discovered then the site would have to be completely closed with immediate effect and all work stopped. We of course duly complied.
Testing showed the sludge to contain low end hydrocarbons and an effective, safe strategy submitted and accepted by our helpful Planning Officer. Work started again last week. Frustrating to lose valuable time and to significantly set back our schedule.
However, one always has to look on the brighter side of these circumstance. Could have been worse - the discovery of a stone age encampment would surely have attracted the archaeologists and a two year survey dig!
By the way, if anyone local is reading this and had worked within or has photos of the old Eaton factory we would be fascinated to hear from you!
Our opening is now due around mid July 2024.