Although based in Cornwall, our expertise often see us called into undertake work and assist with slope stability reports across the UK and this was no exception. For this piece of work, we were requested to provide our expertise in the stability assessment of a steeply sloping soil and rock slope in Jersey, in the rear garden of a £22 million mansion – having been requested by the insurers Zurich International. We were able to respond quickly, and the following week we found ourselves in the sun on the beautiful island of Jersey.
Though the island itself is a crown dependency, there were some challenges in undertaking the necessary desk-study assessment of the site, as our standard resource datasets – such as historic OS maps, aerial and satellite imagery and the BGS datasets – which were limited or not available. However, we were able get around this issue by spending a fruitful afternoon in the Jersey Archives in St Helier, where we were able to research the site, and find the necessary baseline data for a desk-study assessment.
After this desk-based research, the next stage was to undertake a comprehensive walkover assessment of the site, to assess for any risk factors that may be pertinent to the global and local stability of the rock slopes and retaining structures of the garden. The walkover also included an assessment of the immediate surrounding area, adjacent properties and the nearby coastline.
With this thorough undertaking complete, we were able to provide a full and comprehensive slope stability report, which provided the necessary assurances required by mortgage and insurance providers and to keep the conveyance of the property on track. One very happy client!
Cornwall Mining Consultants are able to provide a range of slope stability reports and appraisals. From walkover assessment reports such as this one, which are designed to provide the assurances required to keep property conveyance moving forwards, to the full suite of finite element or kinematic analysis of slope faces, should it be required. Although we are based in Cornwall, our considerable knowledge and proficiency means we are on hand to work around the UK.
If you have concerns about a soil or rock slope on your property, or a property you are interested in, then do contact us. We are always happy to provide advice and assistance.