ABSTRACT
Earth retaining structures are necessary when there is a change in level too great for a stable slope, where a level surface must be constructed regardless of the existing contours, or where a change of level is part of the landscape design: two examples of the land take involved are shown in Figure 1.1. These structures can vary from a simple earth embankment less than a metre high, to an impressive and massive engineering structure supporting half a mountain. This book will deal only with those structures which are within the competence of the landscape designer, since the services of a civil engineer are required if the retaining structure is to hold back a dangerous bulk of soil or rock. Although most of these earth retaining structures can be used equally well for retaining water, this function will be discussed in Chapter 5, Water Retaining Construction. Excellent advice and information on all types of earth retaining structures can be found in BS 6031:1981 Code of Practice for Earth Works and 8002:1994 Earth Retaining Structures.
