Residential Earthworks Project
We recently completed a comprehensive earthworks and ground preparation project for a residential client in Hampshire, tailoring a solution to meet their nee...
Published 11/12/2025
Robert Nicholas’ highly trained teams provide specialist temporary dam services to enable easy access to construction underwater. They work with local councils, utility and construction companies on critical infrastructure projects, providing innovative solutions that reduce costs and risk without compromising safety. With experience in everything from shallow wading access to high-capacity temporary dams in remote areas, they’re always ready to adapt their temporary works to a new project.
We were contacted by long-standing client, Robert Nicholas, who required specialist support to clear a heavily silted culvert located within a restrictive and difficult-to-access area. The build-up of soils, vegetation and upstream debris had significantly reduced water flow, and brickwork along the bridge walls required repair. The project also involved vegetation mitigation and localised riverbank stabilisation.
Scope of works:
Due to the confined nature of the culvert, we selected the RoboEvo mini tracked skid steer fitted with a loading shovel and tine grab. Operated via wireless remote control, this compact machine allowed safe entry into the culvert and enabled controlled removal of material. The RoboEvo extracted soils and debris in small, manageable amounts which were then transferred to our 1.6 tonne excavator positioned at the culvert entrance. The excavator created temporary stockpiles ready for removal from the stream bed.
Extraction of materials from the stream was carried out using our bespoke Lorry Loader and Hook Loader system. This vehicle is equipped with additional hydraulic circuits which allow the use of a clamshell bucket. Its extended reach meant all deposited materials could be safely lifted from the stream bed and transferred into the Hook Loader body for transportation.
Once transported to our recycling facility, all materials were processed and segregated into soils, sands, roots, vegetation and general debris. These were then repurposed into topsoils and wood chippings, supporting our commitment to sustainable recycling practices.
All lifting operations were completed under the supervision of a qualified Lift Supervisor to ensure full compliance with regulations and site safety.
Equipment used:
The culvert presented extremely restrictive headroom, which meant traditional plant could not be utilised inside the structure. The stream bed had feathered down past the culvert outlet, which caused a natural point of deposition for incoming materials. Access to the stream bed was limited and required careful planning, controlled lifting operations and specialist equipment.
The culvert was successfully cleared, restoring free flow along the watercourse. Brickwork repairs and repointing were completed to a high standard on both bridge walls, and localised vegetation mitigation improved future access and maintenance capability. The stream bed was left tidy and stable following the material extraction operations. All recovered materials were responsibly recycled, ensuring the project delivered both operational efficiency and environmental benefit.
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