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Large-scale infrastructure projects require precise geological data long before the first foundation is poured. In Norwich, Norfolk, a major ground investigation (GI) programme was commissioned to assess site conditions for a significant development. The challenge was not just the depth of the boreholes, but the sheer scale of access required across difficult, moisture-sensitive terrain.
Notus Ground Safe was contracted to provide an engineered temporary access solution covering 1,800 linear metres: an area equivalent to approximately 16 football pitches. This case study explores how a dual-product approach ensured site-wide mobility and operational continuity under challenging ground conditions.
Ground investigation rigs and support vehicles are heavy, high-torque pieces of equipment. When operating on virgin ground or sensitive agricultural land, the risk of surface failure is high. For the Norwich project, the scope was extensive:
The geological profile of the site featured variable ground conditions, including soft made ground and moisture-sensitive sub-grades. In these environments, even minor rainfall can turn a manageable site into an impassable mud field, leading to costly programme delays and rig recovery expenses.
Notus Ground Safe conducted an initial site assessment to determine the most effective heavy duty ground protection mats for the specific loads and soil types. Rather than a "one size fits all" strategy, we implemented a dual-product engineered solution to balance cost-efficiency with high-performance load bearing.
For the main 1.8km transport corridors, we utilised the Notus Groundsafe HD Overlap system. These panels are specifically designed for long-distance temporary roads. The unique overlap flange connection system creates a continuous, unified surface that prevents individual mats from shifting or "kicking up" under the weight of moving traffic.
This system was critical for the Norwich site because it eliminated trip hazards for operatives and provided a smooth run for support vehicles, such as water bowsers and fuel trucks, which needed to traverse the site daily.
At the specific borehole locations and rig "pads," the load requirements increased significantly. Drilling rigs exert high point loads, particularly when the mast is raised and the rig is under tension. For these zones, we deployed TuffTrack Heavy Duty Panels.
TuffTrack is a premier solution in trackway hire uk, capable of supporting loads up to 200 tonnes depending on ground conditions. By using these in the high-stress rig areas, we ensured a stable platform for the investigation teams to work safely and accurately.
The choice of HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) over traditional materials like plywood or simple timber bog mats was driven by the moisture sensitivity of the Norfolk sub-grades.
Deploying 1.8km of trackway is a significant logistical undertaking. Our professional installation teams worked in tandem with the ground investigation schedule to ensure that access was ready before the rigs arrived.
Using specialist plant equipped with bespoke lifting attachments, we were able to install the 1,800m of construction site access mats rapidly. This efficiency is a core part of our service, aiming for a 24-hour turnaround on quotes and fast deployment to keep our clients' projects moving.
During the installation phase, the Norwich site experienced periods of high moisture, which threatened the stability of the "made ground" sections. Made ground: areas where the soil has been previously disturbed or filled: is notoriously unpredictable.
The engineered interlocking system of the Notus HD Overlap panels proved its worth here. By creating a raft-like effect, the trackway bridged the soft spots, allowing 20-tonne rigs to pass over areas that would have otherwise required extensive (and expensive) ground stabilisation works.
The success of a ground investigation project is measured by the quality of the data collected and the adherence to the timeline. Any day a rig is stuck is a day of lost data and wasted budget.
The results for the Norwich GI programme were definitive:
The Norwich 1.8km project demonstrates the necessity of a proactive approach to ground protection. For sectors like ground investigation, where access to remote or sensitive areas is mandatory, the right trackway system is not just an "extra": it is the foundation of the project's success.
At Notus Ground Safe, we bring over 20 years of industry experience and more than 10,000 delivered projects to every site. Whether you require a short access path or kilometres of heavy-duty roadway, our team provides the technical expertise and high-quality products needed to keep your plant moving.
Don't let soft ground stall your project. Notus Ground Safe offers free site surveys to assess your specific ground conditions and load requirements. We provide fast, transparent pricing and professional installation services across the UK.
