ABSTRACT
The design of an embankment over weak ground often poses problems for designers, and this site near Glasgow, UK was no different due to complex ground conditions. The site investigation revealed the made ground overlying glacial clay containing frequent and non-uniform peat pockets across the site. This meant an engineering solution was needed to mitigate the impact of differential settlement of the proposed road embankment to maintain its serviceability. The paper includes the design and construction of an innovative approach utilising slip line field analysis and FE modelling for the 1.3 m high three-dimensional cellular foundation mattress, constructed from HDPE uniaxial and PP multiaxial geogrid and filled with recycled demolition waste as an alternative to conventional ground improvement techniques. The project was opened to the public in 2020 and set an example of how early engagement between client, contractor and designer resulted in a sustainable and economic solution for the proposed development.
