Culvert Clearance Project
This project involved us successfully clearing a heavily silted culvert, located within a restrictive and difficult-to-access area.
Published 25/11/2025
Chandler's Ford Parish Council is the local tier of government serving the civil parish of Chandler's Ford in Hampshire. The council is responsible for local amenities such as recreation grounds, allotments, community halls and allotments, and plays a key role in supporting events, nature conservation and community engagement.
Chandlers Ford Parish Council required a Land Drainage and Groundwater Elevation Scheme to address surface water accumulation and improve site usability throughout the year. The aim of this was to ensure that the recreation ground remains accessible and safe for community use during periods of heavy rainfall.
A R Banks Ltd was appointed as the Principal Groundworks Contractor. Upon appointment we drafted a Construction Phase Plan to ensure the client was fully informed about each stage of the project, and to ensure that any potential hazards were identified and planned for.
In order to address the accumulation of surface water at the site and improve usability year-round, whatever the weather, we split the project into eight steps to achieve the desired outcome:
Connecting to an existing manhole
We carefully formed a new connection into an existing surface water manhole, ensuring a secure, watertight interface and maintaining full system integrity while accommodating existing infrastructure and site-specific layout constraints.
Installation of surface water drainage pipe
We installed 48 metres of 300 millimetre twinwall surface water drainage pipe, laid to precise gradients and bedded on suitable material to ensure long-term performance, capacity and durability within the wider drainage network incorporating several Y-junctions positioned along the mainline to support efficient water distribution collected through the 150mm perforated drainage lines.
Installation of twinwall drainage pipe
Our team installed 78 metres of 225 millimetre twinwall drainage pipe, incorporating several Y-junctions positioned along the mainline to support efficient water distribution collected through the 150mm perforated drainage lines, future access and optimal system functionality across the site.
Construction of two precast concrete silt catchment pits
We constructed two precast concrete silt catchment pits to varying depths, ensuring full compliance with BS 5911-3 and BS EN 1917, providing robust collection points for sediment control and long-term drainage efficiency.
Integration of perforated land drainage runs
We installed 150 millimetre perforated land drainage runs with Terram T1000 geotextile trench linings, enabling controlled groundwater movement, preventing silt ingress and improving overall site drainage performance in line with best practice.
Reprofiling of existing ground levels
We reprofiled existing ground levels to achieve natural falls, improving surface water movement across the area. This enhanced drainage efficiency and supported the long-term stability and functionality of the newly installed system.
Topsoiling and turf reinstatement
Following completion of the drainage works, we spread quality topsoil and reinstated all affected areas, restoring the landscape to a high standard and ensuring a clean, professional finish.
Footpath regeneration and reinstatement
We reinstated and rebuilt the affected footpath sections, restoring levels, finishes and edging to their original standard. This ensured safe pedestrian access and a seamless transition with the newly completed drainage works.
All works were carried out in strict accordance with the Land Drainage Specification (Ref: 13562W0003), the Land Drainage Layout (Drawing No. 13562-0050C), and relevant Building Regulations Part H and Sewerage Sector Guidance Appendix C.
Pipe materials and geotextiles were installed to BS 4962 and BS EN 13242 standards, ensuring long-term durability and compliance with industry best practice.
The site presented varying ground conditions and numerous live service routes. To mitigate these challenges we:
The project was completed on programme and to specification, with no health, safety or environmental incidents. The upgraded drainage system now provides significantly improved surface water management, reducing flooding risk and extending the usability of the recreational grounds for local residents.
“A R Banks delivered the works with professionalism and efficiency from start to finish. Their team maintained excellent communication and ensured the project was completed to a high standard and within programme.”
Chandlers Ford Parish Council Representative
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