Boreholes

Q: What Types of Borehole Drilling Methods are there?

1. Cable Percussion DrillingCable tool percussion boreholes are often utilised in site investigation and assessment. They may extend many tens of metres, but typically up to around 30m depthControlled drilling allows good identification of strata types and properties, groundwater, and contaminant zones. Depending on the objectives of the borehole investigation, they can be relatively inexpensive and have the benefit of permitting monitoring installations to be constructed.2. Rotary DrillingThe most common method of borehole excavation is Rotary drill holes, typically up to 50m depths, which can be slightly more expensive but relatively rapid and can allow installations to be constructed.

Q: What are the Advantages of Borehole Drilling?

Some benefits of boreholes include:The SI enables information to be collected to further characterise the Conceptual Model (S-P-R).The presumed Conceptual Ground Model can be updated with actual site data in real time.The siting can be justified and compared with assumptions reasonably developed during desk-study.It is not limited to the collection and analysis of samples to simply ascertain contaminant concentrations – the input to engineering geology and geotechnical assessments is valuable.The sampling strategy can be modified whilst the investigation is in progress. It is also important to consider the Health and Safety implications of drilling boreholes, both during and after the investigation.

ESP’s borehole investigations provide high-quality subsurface data to support geotechnical, environmental and hydrogeological assessments

Boreholes are vertical or horizontal shafts that are narrow or small (one to several thousand metres deep) and drilled into the ground for geological investigation, pilot holes in construction or extraction of:

Water
Oil
Gas such as natural gas
Minerals

What is a Borehole?

Recent Borehole Projects

Case Study 1: Business park development near Langage, Plymouth

ESP delivered a preliminary borehole investigation for a proposed commercial and business park development near Langage, Plymouth, establishing a robust understanding of ground conditions across a complex 30-hectare site.

Works included targeted exploratory boreholes supported by desk study review to assess geology, contamination potential and geotechnical constraints within areas influenced by utilities, adjacent infrastructure and restricted access.

ESP confirmed a ground model of shallow Made Ground overlying weathered and competent Middle Devonian Slates, with generally low contamination levels, and provided clear recommendations to guide further detailed investigation and support ongoing design development.

Case Study 2: New footbridge in Hampton, Evesham

We were engaged by Burroughs and Alun Griffiths Contractors on behalf of Worcestershire County Council to undertake a multi faceted ground investigation to support design of a proposed new footbridge and associated pathways in Hampton, Evesham. The proposed scheme includes a bridge across the River Avon, a causeway across the flood plain, and new shared walking and cycling paths to provide a safe and direct foot/cycle connection between Pershore Road to Evesham town center.

A previous desk study and preliminary risk assessment were reviewed by ESP as part of site planning and preparation to identify any data gaps. The site is formed of various complex geological, ecological and geomorphological hazards and comprises the land to the east and west of the River Avon, where on the west the ground is steeply sloping to the river.

The underlying geology is variable across the eastern and western banks of the river, with the Wasperton Sand and Gravel Member, over Alluvium overlying bedrock comprising Blue Lias Formation and Charmouth Mudstone. To the west, no superficial deposits are recorded and the site is directly underlain by Rugby Member (Limestone) bedrock.

A site investigation was undertaken to determine the underlying ground conditions and support development design. The investigation was designed to navigate the complex site access and steep slopes, with slope climbing rigs utilised to undertake the rotary boreholes.

In addition, the development is proposed on sensitive land with ecological restrictions including tree protection zones, the presence of Himalayan Balsam, and proximity to the ecologically important River Avon (SAC, SPA, and RAMSAR). To ensure protection of the river, silt fences were installed along the river banks.

Access to the majority of the site was gained primarily via public rights of way (footpaths) or private land. Pre-commencement Client and land-owner liaison formed an important aspect of the project.

Explore our project gallery to see our team in action. From initial investigations to final delivery, these images represent our commitment to high quality data collection and the professional standards we bring to every project.

Project Gallery

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Borehole Drilling Methods are there?

1. Cable Percussion Drilling

Cable tool percussion boreholes are often utilised in site investigation and assessment. They may extend many tens of metres, but typically up to around 30m depth

Controlled drilling allows good identification of strata types and properties, groundwater, and contaminant zones. Depending on the objectives of the borehole investigation, they can be relatively inexpensive and have the benefit of permitting monitoring installations to be constructed.

2. Rotary Drilling

The most common method of borehole excavation is Rotary drill holes, typically up to 50m depths, which can be slightly more expensive but relatively rapid and can allow installations to be constructed.

What are the Advantages of Borehole Drilling?

Some benefits of boreholes include:

The SI enables information to be collected to further characterise the Conceptual Model (S-P-R).
The presumed Conceptual Ground Model can be updated with actual site data in real time.
The siting can be justified and compared with assumptions reasonably developed during desk-study.
It is not limited to the collection and analysis of samples to simply ascertain contaminant concentrations – the input to engineering geology and geotechnical assessments is valuable.
The sampling strategy can be modified whilst the investigation is in progress. It is also important to consider the Health and Safety implications of drilling boreholes, both during and after the investigation.

Client Testimonials

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Simon Lewis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Earth Science Partnership recently completed an independent geo-environmental review for us and I have been extremely impressed with both the quality of their work and the professionalism of the team.
The report was comprehensive, balanced and technically robust, helping us navigate a complex evidence base and identify the key issues requiring further consideration. Just as importantly, ESP were approachable and willing to engage constructively with questions arising from the draft report.
Special thanks to Daniel Thomas for his time, patience and willingness to explain technical matters in a way that non-specialists could understand. It was clear throughout that the focus was on objective, evidence-led analysis rather than simply telling a client what they wanted to hear.
A highly professional consultancy and one I would most happily recommend.
Simon Lewis :
Secretary : Nant-Y-Calch Conservation Group
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Barbara 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Earth Science Partnership has helped us immensely through a , long, stressful and complex situation following a major leak under our property. We had the absolute pleasure of working with Giles Sommerwill, who was with us every step of the way. He helped us to understand the geological conditions and ramifications following such a major leak, and then informed and  advised us during the process of agreeing a remedial solution with the water company, as well as helping us address other issues that arose over time. Giles is experienced, knowledgeable and highly qualified. We could not have hoped to work with anyone more professional, reliable or kind. We also felt that Giles was genuinely concerned, not just about our property, but about our well-being. Thanks to him, we highly recommend, and praise, Earth Science Partnership.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Roberta Morgan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having used the services of Earth Science Partnership on two previous occasions, we had no reservations about employing them for a third time.  They are very professional and produce excellent detailed reports on what they are able to do.  They are prepared to listen to everything you require and would highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Joshua Pike 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ESP undertook some thorough CMRA (Coal Mining Risk Assessment) works for our site. They showed a surprising level of knowledge into the historical mining methods and establishment of mining sites. Prompt and in-depth reporting and great communication, would definitely recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Duncan Phillips 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great client to deal with!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Keri Beal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great communication, excellent prompt service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Oliver Stacey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ESP have done some excellent GI works for me and produced some excellent in depth reports for our client (Network Rail)

Speak To Our Experts Today

Earth Science Partnership is a leading expert in boreholes across Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. We have decades of combined experience in our team of industry-recognised experts.

Our work, for homeowners, land owners, developers, and investors is completed in compliance with the latest, relevant industry best practices and guidance. We understand that every project is unique, so we deliver our services tailored to your needs.

If you’re looking to complete a borehole assessment, the ESP team can support you with a straightforward, cost-effective solution for your planning permission application.

Author

I am a UK Registered Ground Engineering Specialist and Chartered Engineering & Environmental Geologist with significant experience in Site Hazard Assessment, Remediation, Design, and Implementation across the Geoenvironmental and Geotechnical sectors in the UK and abroad.

I often work in multi-disciplinary teams advising other engineering and design professionals on the implications of ground hazards.

My work involves undertaking design, planning, management, and reporting of ground investigations. For example investigations for new developments and many bespoke studies including:

Assessment of hydrogeological settings, materials for earthworks.
Impact of abandoned mine workings.
Remediation and stability assessment of soil and rock slopes/landslides, most notably the Pantteg Landslide in the Swansea Valley for which I have guided and presented assessments to Local Authority officers and the general public.