Every construction site is unique, and with uniqueness comes challenges. From tricky soil conditions to tight urban spaces, the groundworks phase can present hurdles that, if not managed properly, could delay your project or increase costs. At Newlands Construction, with over 37 years of experience in groundworks and civil engineering, we’ve tackled a wide range of site challenges. Here are five common ones—and how we overcome them to keep your project on track.

1. Unstable or Poor Soil Conditions

Weak or variable soil can undermine the stability of any structure. This often requires special foundation solutions, such as piling or soil stabilization.
Our Approach: We conduct thorough site investigations early on to understand soil characteristics. Our expert team then designs and implements the most suitable foundation system, ensuring a safe and durable build.

2. High Water Tables and Drainage Issues

Waterlogged sites can cause delays and damage to foundations if not properly managed. Standing water can also affect machinery and create hazardous working conditions.
Our Approach: We install efficient drainage systems tailored to site conditions and use sump pumps and water management techniques to keep the site dry and safe throughout construction.

3. Limited Access and Tight Urban Sites

Working in crowded or restricted areas, especially in cities, can make moving equipment and materials a challenge. Space constraints increase risk and complicate logistics.
Our Approach: With in-house machinery and a skilled team experienced in urban projects, we plan logistics meticulously to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency—even in the tightest spots.

4. Unexpected Underground Obstacles

Hidden obstacles like old foundations, debris, or utility lines can cause costly delays if discovered late.
Our Approach: We use advanced ground-penetrating radar and other detection methods during pre-construction surveys. This lets us plan around obstacles or remove them safely without interrupting progress.

5. Health and Safety Risks

Construction sites come with inherent risks, from heavy machinery to hazardous materials. Managing these risks is critical to protect workers and meet legal standards.
Our Approach: Health and safety is our top priority. We maintain rigorous safety protocols, provide ongoing training, and supervise all operations closely to ensure a safe working environment from start to finish.