This month, the CL:AIRE DoW CoP Team was invited to visit an active DoW CoP site that is currently using the Direct Transfer scenario to import and reuse clean, naturally occurring materials.
The site is located in Somerset, and it is part of works being carried out by the Environment Agency. Kier is the main contractor undertaking the major earthworks to improve the local flood defences.
During the day, CL:AIRE DoW CoP staff met the project team and had a pre-visit meeting with them in the site compound. Kier’s project representative alongside their consultant (enviroconsult.pro) presented the project context to CL:AIRE and highlighted the sections to visit on a map. Health and safety items were also clearly explained to CL:AIRE staff before entering the site. CL:AIRE provided observations following a review of the project Materials Management Plan (MMP) and discussed some areas for improvement with the project team. The comments and recommendations were well received by the project team, which agreed to implement some improvement actions.
During the visit, the project team guided CL:AIRE staff through key areas of the project. These included the material stockpiling area and one of the final material placement locations. The team explained the processes outlined in the MMP, such as material sourcing, testing, acceptance criteria, transportation, stockpile management, and contingency plans. They also shared an example of the material transfer tickets. Some of challenges faced since the commencement of the project were highlighted, i.e. site stockpiling and material availability, and CL:AIRE staff expressed their willingness to provide support where possible.
It was a useful and productive visit for CL:AIRE staff and the project team.
CL:AIRE is working to promote high standards within the industry, and we hope that opportunities for such site visits and providing direct responses / feedback to project teams will help achieve that aim and will be welcomed by our members.
