Flood Mitigation Design for Galleyfield Industrial Estate

SOLID were appointed as civil engineers to deliver a drainage design that would mitigate severe flooding issues affecting the Galleyfield Industrial Estate in Abingdon.

Our work began with a feasibility study, during which we carried out a full site walkaround and commissioned both a topographical survey and utilities survey. This allowed us to build an accurate picture of the existing ground levels and buried services, and to better understand the causes of flooding across the estate.

With this information, we completed the feasibility study and presented a range of potential solutions to the client. Following detailed discussions, SOLID was commissioned to progress with the detailed design stage. As part of this, we undertook infiltration testing and CBR testing to provide a clear understanding of ground conditions and pavement strength.

The most effective solution identified was the installation of a large soakaway beneath an existing gravel car park, combined with carefully positioned gullies and a new pipe network. Catchment areas were calculated based on accurate survey levels, and a hydraulic model was developed to simulate extreme storm events. This ensured that the proposed system would effectively prevent on-site flooding. To further protect the environment, an oil interceptor was specified to capture pollutants running off the hardstanding areas of the estate.

In addition to the drainage strategy, remedial and new works to the estate road were designed by SOLID. A robust pavement build-up was specified to withstand constant heavy vehicle loading, ensuring the long-term durability of the estate’s road infrastructure.

Through this project, SOLID has provided a sustainable, technically robust drainage and road design that addresses existing challenges while safeguarding the site against future flood risk.