The team at Bluebells Groundworks is back in action after a well-earned family break, and we’ve hit the ground running with two weather-dependent projects in our first week of 2026. The New Year has started busy, but with careful planning and expertise, we’ve been able to keep work moving safely and efficiently.
Project 1 – Basement & Underpinning
Our first project involves a basement and underpinning scheme. Initial works began with the excavation of an inspection pit to assess the condition of the existing masonry. Upon inspection, we found that the brickwork wasn’t suitable for a traditional underpinning approach.
Our first project involves a basement and underpinning scheme. Initial works began with the excavation of an inspection pit to assess the condition of the existing masonry. Upon inspection, we found that the brickwork wasn’t suitable for a traditional underpinning approach.
To ensure the long-term safety and stability of the structure, we revised the plan. The next step involves demolishing the compromised brickwork and installing a reinforced concrete retaining wall. Once this is in place, we can safely proceed with underpinning and basement excavation. Projects like this demonstrate the importance of flexibility, experience, and careful assessment in groundwork. Our priority is always to deliver a strong, lasting result for our customers.
Project 2 – Retaining Wall
The second project this week sees us tackling a retaining wall where the customer had carried out some pre-Christmas excavation. Unfortunately, this had caused some ground slippage. With freezing temperatures in the first week of January, we needed to wait until conditions were safe for concrete pouring. Once the temperature reached +3°C and rising, we were able to continue and pour the concrete safely. With that key step complete, works are now progressing according to plan.
The second project this week sees us tackling a retaining wall where the customer had carried out some pre-Christmas excavation. Unfortunately, this had caused some ground slippage. With freezing temperatures in the first week of January, we needed to wait until conditions were safe for concrete pouring. Once the temperature reached +3°C and rising, we were able to continue and pour the concrete safely. With that key step complete, works are now progressing according to plan.
These first projects of 2026 highlight the challenges of winter groundwork, where timing, temperature, and technique all play a critical role, but also the satisfaction of seeing careful planning pay off. As we move into the New Year, we’re excited to continue delivering high-quality, expert groundwork solutions to all our customers.
