In the heart of Chesterfield, a vacant plot of land with a rich and complex history is set to undergo a remarkable transformation. Nestled in an urban area that has seen development since the 1870s, this site has remained largely untouched, even as nearby coal mining operations ceased in the 1920s. Now, with the vision of turning this neglected space into a seven-storey hotel alongside a residential apartment complex, our client aims to create a vibrant hub that engages the local community and draws in visitors.
Understanding the Challenges
The project’s initiation required a comprehensive site investigation to assess the risks associated with the historical coal mining and potential contamination of the land. Jomas were tasked with providing geotechnical engineering recommendations that would aid in the foundation and structural design of the new structures.
We faced challenges from the outset, particularly during the drilling phase where we encountered significant water loss. However, our early preparation and proactive approach enabled us to address these issues without halting progress.
Navigating the Approval Process
One of the client’s initial concerns was the approval timeline with the Coal Authority. Given the tight schedule for our site work, we anticipated potential delays. Fortunately, our team’s experience in handling similar submissions allowed us to streamline the process. We submitted a concise and comprehensive proposal, which not only met but exceeded our client’s expectations by securing approval within a week of issue.
Effective Solutions
Throughout the drilling process, we faced setbacks due to water loss. However, our response was immediate and effective. We informed the client promptly, and continued drilling at a reduced pace. To maintain momentum, we mobilized an additional rig to drill another borehole concurrently and brought in extra water bowsers to ensure the work continued smoothly. Despite the unforeseen challenges, we successfully completed the project within the required timeframe.
Our Unique Approach
What sets Jomas apart in this project and others like it is our commitment to delivering engineering value through thorough desk-based assessments, followed by in-depth investigation and expert data evaluation. Our approach is designed to minimize additional costs by offering comprehensive services from the outset, creating a ‘one-stop-shop’ for our clients. This strategy enables us to identify risks related to contaminated land, coal mining, and geotechnical complexity, ensuring that we understand their correlations and streamline the overall project.
Safety and Compliance
Our methodology emphasized health and safety measures throughout the investigation. By implementing appropriate protocols, we ensured that our operations were not only effective but also compliant with regulations, leading to a swift permit approval from the Coal Authority.
With extensive experience in managing complex planning approvals, we are well-equipped to oversee the entire approval process, ensuring that our clients’ goals are met.
The transformation of this vacant plot into a hotel and residential complex not only revitalizes the area but also strengthens community ties in Chesterfield. At Jomas, we are proud to play a pivotal role in this development, combining our expertise in contaminated land assessment, coal mining, and geotechnical investigation to create spaces that are not only functional but also enriching for the community.
Photo credit: Turner+Co
