Cable Works Access on a Floodplain Near Bognor Regis
A cable project near Bognor Regis needed a temporary access solution across soft ground in a floodplain location. The works required a reliable haul route, stable platform areas for equipment, and a temporary bridge to reach the far side of the site. With limited working height and poor ground conditions, the client needed a system that could be installed safely and perform under heavy-duty use.
The Challenge: Low Clearance, Unstable Ground, and a Temporary Bridge Requirement
The site presented multiple constraints at once: floodplain conditions, unstable terrain, and very limited headroom for installation and ongoing operations. In addition to forming a haul route and working platforms, the team needed to create a stable base for installing a temporary bridge, then continue access on the far side once the bridge was in place.
Overhead cables added a further restriction, hanging just 10 metres above the work area. With 6 metres of clearance required for machinery, there was very little margin to manoeuvre. Standard lifting equipment was not suitable, so the installation method had to be adapted to maintain safety while working within the height limits.
Our Solution: XtremeMat Ground Protection for Heavy-Duty Access and Platforms
GroundGuards supplied XtremeMat ground protection mats to provide the initial base layer and the full access route once the bridge was installed. With an internal foam core and high load capacity, XtremeMat provided a robust system suitable for heavy-duty access, haul routes, and stable working platforms on soft ground.
A Phased Installation to Support Bridge Works and Continuous Access
Installation followed a carefully planned sequence to place mats safely under restricted headroom. The first phase created a stable surface to enable the bridge installation. Once the bridge was in position, matting continued on the far side to form a solid pad area and maintain continuous access for the cable works.
Safe Mechanical Handling Within Clearance Limits
Each XtremeMat measures four metres by two metres and weighs 385 kilograms, so mechanical handling was required. The team adapted lifting methods to work efficiently within the limited clearance, ensuring safe placement and progress at every stage.
Results: Safe, Stable Access Across Floodplain Terrain
Despite difficult conditions, the project was completed safely and efficiently. The mats performed as required, providing a firm, non-slip surface across challenging terrain without causing damage to the floodplain.
By adapting the installation method and using the strength and durability of XtremeMat, the team maintained progress from start to finish. The client was pleased with the outcome and noted how effectively the access solution worked within strict site constraints.
Key Lessons for Low-Clearance and Floodplain Access Projects
- Build the access plan around overhead restrictions early -headroom limits can dictate lifting method, sequencing, and plant selection.
- Use a phased installation approach when bridging is involved, creating a stable base first and extending access only once the crossing is secured.
- Specify mats suited to heavy-duty platforms as well as haul routes, particularly where ground conditions are unstable.
- Account for mat size and weight in the handling plan -safe mechanical handling becomes a key part of the method statement on restricted sites.
- On floodplains, prioritise stable, non-slip surfaces that support operations while minimising ground disturbance.
Speak to GroundGuards About Restricted Access and Soft Ground Solutions
If your site involves overhead restrictions, soft ground, or complex logistics, GroundGuards can help. We design and supply access solutions that keep cable and infrastructure projects moving safely and efficiently. Contact the team to discuss your requirements.
