Ørsted proposed the development of the Hornsea 04 Offshore Wind Farm, a major addition to the Humber offshore wind cluster. Positioned approximately 69 km east of Flamborough Head, adjacent to the eastern boundary of the existing Hornsea 02 array, the project would have been one of the world’s largest offshore wind farm developments.

The selected landfall, located near Fraisthorpe, south of Bridlington on England’s east coast, lies within a zone of significant active coastal erosion. Ørsted identified landfall construction as a high risk element of the project and sought specialist assessment to establish a ‘base case’ export cable landfall design to take forward with EPCI contractors.

Our geotechnical team carried out a comprehensive Landfall Feasibility Study. The objective was to technically evaluate trenchless installation options capable of meeting Ørsted’s base cable installation parameters, enabling a clear and informed decision on the lowest risk solution for the project and providing a robust reference design for the main works tender.

The study included a detailed geological assessment and ground modelling based on ground investigation data, alongside the specification and procurement of topographical surveys. Using both onshore topographic information and offshore bathymetry data, 3D landfall profiles were developed to support the assessment of installation constraints, including minimum water depths at punch out and cable cover depth requirements for thermal dissipation.

A long term assessment of coastal erosion potential, projecting conditions up to 45 years post commissioning, was undertaken with technical support from a sub consultant. Our team also carried out inspections of rock core samples recovered from offshore boreholes to determine the frequency and nature of flint inclusions, which could pose challenges for trenchless construction techniques.

To support risk management and future project stages, a comprehensive Geotechnical Risk Register was developed, identifying key ground related risks and proposing appropriate mitigation measures. The findings were formalised through the production of a detailed Landfall Feasibility Report and associated base case design drawings.

Our analysis demonstrated that the lowest risk technique would be a fully cased system, driven from onshore to offshore using a jacked microtunnel boring machine launched from an onshore sheet piled pit. This solution provided confidence in achieving the required length to meet minimum water depth criteria at punch out, while limiting the extent of offshore works and associated weather dependency. Subsequent engagement with EPCI contractors by Ørsted validated this recommendation.

 

The University of Manchester is undergoing a major refurbishment. This latest scheme is part of the University’s broader redevelopment programme which aims to transform the campus into a zero-carbon environment for teaching and research.

The University began these essential zero carbon works in 2023, with the funding allocated specifically to projects that support its ambitious sustainability goals. The Zochonis Building, located on Brunswick Street, forms part of phase two of the building decarbonisation programme, which includes a total of four buildings.

As part of the refurbishment, the Zochonis Building will undergo a series of long-term maintenance and decarbonisation interventions, including a full thermal upgrade, integration of air-source heat pumps for heating, and the implementation of passive cooling measures. These enhancements are expected to contribute to the University’s target of saving 5,000 tonnes of carbon by 2026/27.

Originally constructed in 1953 and named after businessman and philanthropist Sir John Zochonis, the building is a prominent feature of the University’s Science Quadrangle, alongside the later-built Simon, Williamson, Chemistry, and Schuster buildings. It houses lecture theatres, research and teaching facilities, and several specialist laboratories. Notable features of its original design include cavity brickwork with full-height integral risers, clay pot and beam floors, and parquet flooring throughout.

Working in partnership with Chris Bowker Limited, our team is delivering the building services designs from RIBA Stage 4i and organising the construction information with the project design team, including ensuring compliance with University documents and coordinating the MEP design and services.

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Women and Children’s Building is a £110 million scheme which has transformed healthcare for families across Cheshire and North Wales.

The state-of-the-art facility opened its doors in autumn 2025, bringing together maternity, neonatal, paediatric, and gynaecology services under one roof. The three-storey building replaces the original 1970s structure and forms part of the NHS’s national programme to eliminate the use of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in healthcare buildings. AHR Architects’ design focuses on creating a welcoming and light environment to cater to a wide range of patient needs, whilst also prioritising staff wellbeing with a variety of rest rooms and training spaces.

Offering a wide range of specialist facilities, the building includes a modern delivery suite with 11 birthing rooms and two obstetric theatres, a 24-bed maternity ward with en-suite single rooms, a neonatal unit with capacity for up to 16 cots, a children’s ward with overnight accommodation for families, and enhanced staff and visitor amenities designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind.

Radlett Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) is a transformative infrastructure project in Hertfordshire designed to shift freight from road to rail. The scheme focuses on reducing congestion, cutting carbon emissions and supporting the UK’s Net Zero ambitions, all through the introduction of a rail link with direct connection to the Midland Main Line.

Led by VolkerFitzpatrick, the project includes the successful installation of a 60-metre, 6,000-tonne precast concrete underbridge during a nine-day Network Rail blockade. The works also encompass switches and crossings, signalling systems, and overhead line equipment, all delivered with minimal disruption to passenger activities.

Our team provided specialist engineering and environmental consultancy services for the scheme, seeing us assess the extent and removal of landfill waste beneath the underbridge construction areas alongside subsequent reinstatement of ground levels to create a suitable works platform. The work meets rigorous environmental standards, Network Rail approvals and integrated seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

With each freight train operating from the site removing up to 76 heavy goods vehicle journeys from UK roads, contributing to national decarbonisation goals, and improving air quality, and boosting biodiversity were core project goals. A key highlight is the 600-acre country park, featuring 200 acres of woodland and 400 acres of conservation grazing land, which enhances biodiversity and delivers long-term ecological value. The scheme also incorporates 17 kilometres of footpaths, bridleways, and trails, connecting communities to nature and encouraging active travel.

Beyond its environmental impact, the SRFI focuses on the delivery of meaningful social value through local employment, apprenticeships, and partnerships with educational institutions, investing in the future of the community.