SSE were looking to build a new windfarm to connect two neighbouring windfarms in Torness, Invernesshire. The project, which was entirely engineer led, commenced with a site examination of several factors ranging from proximity to overhead power lines, to topography and landscape visual impact.
Our team undertook a Geotechnical Assessment including an intrusive ground investigation and peat probing, and the information gathered from the ground investigation was then input to AutoCAD Civil 3D where surface models for existing ground, average peat depth, glacial till and rock could be deprived. Value engineering was then designed by performing a cut and fill analysis using the ground investigation data and hence surface strata to set a platform level and access track tie-in. This allowed full reuse of the material on site.
In addition to the work on the substation, public road improvements were required to facilitate construction and safe passage of abnormal load movements during delivery of electrical transformers. Most significantly, the existing B851/B582 junction needed improvements as well as the widening and an increase in length to the B862 along the approach to Torness.
While working on the project, we identified that due to the natural overland flow from the surrounding high ground, the access track position had been intercepted. Therefore, it was necessary to provide appropriate measures to maintain continuity of the water flow. In line with SuDs requirements, our project team designed cut off ditches and cross pipes which allowed the dirty water from the access track to be directed into filter trenches and then into a dispersal system.
