POND DREDGING AND OAK RETAINING WALL PROJECT

Denton, near Bungay, Suffolk

Introduction

This report outlines the works carried out by our team for the pond dredging and oak retaining wall construction project in Denton, near Bungay, Suffolk. The project was executed in two phases – the first focusing on pond dredging and the second on the installation of an oak retaining wall.

Phase One: Pond Dredging

Access to the site was achieved via a five-bar gate, facilitating the entry of all necessary plant and equipment through the meadow. The initial step involved transporting our 4” industrial road tow pump to the site, allowing it to settle before commencing operations. Once the pump and pipework were set up, water from the pond was pumped onto the meadow.

An 8-tonne long reach excavator and a 9-tonne dumper were delivered for the next stage. The team then created a bund in the meadow to deposit silt, reeds, and debris excavated from the pond. Fencing and hedging were removed carefully and placed to one side. Trees were faced back and canopies lifted. The long reach excavator was carefully tracked into position by the pond’s edge. Material was systematically excavated, loaded into the dumper, and transferred to the designated bunded area.

Upon completion of the dredging, the sides were steep so the banks were reshaped where possible and a safety ledge was created. The 8-tonne excavator was subsequently collected, and a 6-tonne excavator was brought to site, equipped with a hydraulic post knocker and specialist plates in preparation for the next phase.

Phase Two: Oak Retaining Wall Construction

Oak sleepers were sourced and transported to the site, then positioned along the pond edge nearest the client’s house. The 6-tonne excavator was fitted with a hydraulic knocker and plates, enabling the team to drive the upright oak sleepers into place. Horizontal sleepers were then installed, drilled, and bolted to the uprights using coach bolts, washers, and nuts. This procedure was continued in successive rows until the desired height was achieved.

A trench was excavated into the lawn to allow halved oak sleepers to be installed upright as retaining posts. Horizontal oak retainers were drilled, bolted, and secured with rebar to both the retaining wall and rear upright retainers, providing structural stability.

Additional Works and Completion

Following further discussions, the client requested the extension of the oak retaining wall further around the pond. This required the temporary removal of further fencing to allow plant access from the vegetable plot. Additional oak sleepers were supplied and installed using the same method as previously described. Once all sleepers were in place, levels were checked with a laser level to ensure accuracy.

The lawn area behind the new retaining wall was backfilled with rubble and topped with on-site topsoil, which was then left as builders on site were preparing patio slabbing. All hedging and stock fencing were reinstated. Upon completion of the works, all plant was collected and the site was left in a clean and tidy condition, meeting the client’s expectations.

Conclusion

The project was completed efficiently and to a high standard, with all works carried out as specified. The pond dredging and installation of the oak retaining wall have enhanced both the appearance and functionality of the client’s property.

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