Project Introduction
Coleman Construction & Utilities Limited successfully delivered a complex civil engineering package at Fordcombe Wastewater Treatment Works. The scheme was completed within a live operational environment, requiring careful coordination and a robust approach to health, safety and programme management.
The works formed part of a wider wastewater treatment upgrade and involved significant civil engineering activities, including the removal of existing site infrastructure, construction of reinforced concrete elements and the installation of new ducting, pipework and manholes.
Through detailed planning, close collaboration with Bridges and effective stakeholder engagement, the project was delivered safely and within the agreed programme.
Scope of Works
Coleman Construction & Utilities Limited was responsible for a comprehensive package of civil engineering works, including:
- Break out and removal of the existing access road and earth banks adjacent to live structures
- Construction of pre-cast and reinforced concrete retaining walls
- Installation of site wide ducting, draw pits and chambers
- Installation of underground pipework and manholes
- Reinforced concrete base slabs, hardstanding’s and access roads
All works were undertaken while maintaining uninterrupted operation of the treatment works.
Pipework and Manhole Installation
The project required the installation of new drainage systems to serve both new assets and wider site infrastructure, including:
- 110mm and 160mm OSMA drainage systems
- 32mm potable water supplies connected to existing mains
- Installation of an intercept chamber, including excavation, concrete works, manhole rings and pipe connections with core-drilled entries
Ductwork Installation
A site wide ducting network was installed using 150mm twin wall ducting, with Cubis RapidStak units utilised to form draw pits across the site. This infrastructure provides capacity for future electrical and control systems as part of the ongoing treatment works improvements.
Reinforced Concrete Works, Hardstandings and Roads
The civil works package included the construction of reinforced concrete bases for new package plant kiosks and tanks, along with:
- Hardstandings and footpaths to provide safe access across the site
- Retaining wall bases for PCC solution walls and smaller reinforced concrete retaining walls
- Delivery bund incorporating a containment hump
Challenges and Solutions
The primary challenge on the project was restricted site access within a live wastewater treatment facility. This required meticulous planning around sequencing, deliveries and interfaces with other trades to meet a tightly regulated completion deadline.
Through proactive coordination and clear communication, the team successfully managed these constraints and delivered the works with zero incidents, reflecting the effectiveness of the project’s safety planning and site management.
Project Outcomes and Benefits
- Safe delivery of all works within the programmed timescale
- Strong, collaborative working relationship with Bridges
- Clear and consistent communication with all stakeholders
- High quality, snag free completion
Coleman Construction & Utilities Limited adopted a collaborative and non confrontational approach throughout the project, prioritising programme certainty, quality and long term working relationships. Health, safety and wellbeing remained central at every stage, with a consistent focus on achieving zero harm.
Added Value Delivered by Coleman Construction & Utilities Limited
- Deep understanding of working within constrained, live wastewater treatment sites
- Practical sequencing and logistics planning to minimise disruption to operations
- Civil solutions delivered with future site development and maintenance in mind
- Reliable delivery partner with a track record of integrating smoothly into wider upgrade programmes
Coleman Construction & Utilities Limited provides trusted civil engineering support for wastewater infrastructure projects, combining operational awareness with dependable delivery and a practical approach focused on sustainable construction solutions.
