Ground Investigation work (GI) are being carried out in agricultural fields in proximity to the Broad Oak Water site.
This will provide us with information to assess the proposed location and progress the scheme. This means that machinery, people and activity are visible on site.
However, this is not construction work and does not signal the start of the reservoir build – it is exploratory survey work to provide us with the data necessary to design the reservoir and consider how it may be built. We are not fracking, or drilling for substances, or detrimentally impacting wildlife.
What you may see during Ground Investigations
There is visible activity during the Ground Investigations, including tall machinery, people on site, a site office and vehicles. The area looks similar to a construction compound, but no construction work is taking place.
Below are some images of the types of machinery on the Broad Oak Water site:
How you may be affected by the Ground Investigations
The Ground Investigation works take place during normal daytime working hours and within noise limits set by the relevant local planning authority, to minimise disruption and impact to the environment. However, there will be unavoidable noise and activity that may affect those living close by.
We are communicating with South East Water’s residential and agricultural tenants on an individual basis and sending information to local residents and businesses in the wider area.
Frequently asked questions
GI works involve exploratory surveys. These investigations are crucial for assessing ground conditions, evaluating the project’s viability and determining the extent of necessary earthworks. The GI works themselves include soil sampling, groundwater and gas monitoring through exploratory holes such as boreholes and trial pits.
This stage is vital for risk mitigation and in contributing towards the project design.
Not at this stage. The Ground Investigation works do not signal the start of construction work on the reservoir – we are assessing the ground where the reservoir will be built at a later date.
The Broad Oak Water project is now progressing, with the aim to provide water into supply by 2035. We are in the initial phase of this scheme, and the GI work will inform our plans.
Local residents may hear increased noise levels and see contractors working on site.
If your land is directly affected, our appointed land agents, Dalcour Maclaren, will contact you individually.
We are liaising closely with environmental and wildlife groups to avoid impact on watercourses and habitats.
All activities adhere to Health and Safety and environmental legislation, with working areas being secured with fencing.