Forge Dam repair work update - Aug 25

Further to our last update we have received details from the council regarding the works that were undertaken recently. We will pass on any further details as and when we get them.

To summarise;

The initial start date was scheduled for 4 August, but due to rainfall and elevated pond levels, works were delayed.

Excavations began on 14 August, with a bund constructed from silt material, and a 2” pump deployed to maintain a dry work area. Upon removal, the existing plywood was found not directly in front of the culvert, but rather covering multiple breaches in the pond wall. A CCTV survey was undertaken to verify the absence of additional incoming culverts.

Challenges & Further discoveries

Pumping over the weir wall was restricted by the ‘Flood Risk Activity Permit’ imposed by the Environment Agency, resulting in recirculated water overtopping and repeatedly breaching the bund, despite several attempts at replacement.

Inspection of the culvert revealed layers of plywood, 450–500mm foam, and further plywood and foam. Water ingress was noted through both the foam and side walls of the culvert. Lowering the water level by approximately 300mm below the breaches reduced flow significantly, indicating that repairing the wall breach could resolve the issue. Additional excavation at this point was deemed to be unproductive.

Revisions!

It was agreed to propose costs for damming the pond, installing a horseshoe sheet pile shutter, and mass-filling with concrete between the sheet piles and the pond wall. This solution is less intrusive than the original plan to infill the entire culvert. Esh is currently preparing revised designs and cost estimates for the remedial works. Updated cost and design proposals are expected for review by the first week of September, after which a follow-up meeting will be scheduled.