A groundbreaking earthworks trial has kickstarted the transformation of a former opencast colliery site in Woodville, Derbyshire, into a promising area for residential and commercial development. Conducted by senior engineer Emma Scholes from Curtins, alongside Harworth and contractor AFS, the trials began last April, signaling the first step in repurposing the backfilled land that spans across two sections divided by a road.

The eastern part of the site is earmarked for residential housing, while the western section is set for mixed-use commercial development. These trials are crucial for determining the viability of using re-engineered colliery spoil as a foundation for future buildings, a sustainable approach that retains backfill on-site, reducing the need for importing materials.

Historically, the challenge with developing on colliery spoil has been its unpredictability and the cost associated with its removal. However, by employing modern engineering methods, the project team aims to overcome these obstacles, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development practices.

The site’s complex history, including its use for opencast mining in the 1960s and 70s and subsequent backfilling with colliery spoil, presents unique challenges. The earthworks trials, therefore, play a pivotal role in assessing the ground conditions, with a series of excavations revealing both the potential and the difficulties of building on such terrain.

The trials have tested various methodologies, from adjusting layer thicknesses to changing compaction techniques, aiming to achieve optimal ground conditions for construction. Despite weather-related setbacks and the inherent variability of colliery spoil, the team has adapted their approach, successfully identifying methods that meet the rigorous specifications for development.

The project has already garnered attention for its innovative approach to dealing with challenging ground conditions, setting a precedent for future developments on similar sites. With the trials providing a wealth of data on compaction and settlement under load, the team is well-equipped to move forward with the enabling works needed for this significant redevelopment.

As the trials progress, insights gained will not only facilitate the residential and commercial transformation of the Woodville site but also contribute to the broader field of geotechnical engineering. With a focus on sustainability, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving, this project highlights the potential of reimagined brownfield sites as keystones for community development and economic growth.