Tews, Petersfield

As a sensitive site in a conservation setting, the structural design needed to meet high expectations for sustainability and performance. SPEEDECK provided a piled raft foundation solution, balancing efficiency, durability, and environmental responsibility.

This system minimised material use compared to traditional deep foundations, reducing embodied carbon while still ensuring strength and long-term stability. It also aided in supporting the project’s wider sustainable credentials, which include solar panels, green roofs to encourage biodiversity, and energy-efficient design.

The Made Ground at the site varies in thickness, reaching up to 1.40m at its deepest. Beneath this are superficial deposits made up of clay, sand, and gravel, which generally fall within the heave zone. Below these layers lies firm clay bedrock, which was also found within the heave zone in certain parts of the site.

Although the shallow soils are variable, significant layers of shallow clay were found beneath three of the proposed structures. One area of the planned development required heave protection as it lies within the influence of nearby trees.

Our works included:

• Blinding
• Piling
• Drainage installation
• Installation of piled rafts
• Installation of Groundbeams & pile caps to undercroft parking areas

The combined piled ground beam & piled raft approach allowed for faster installation, just 10 weeks, reduced waste, and a durable foundation platform that sets the standard for the remainder of the build.