Client: Eric Wright Civil Engineering | Principal Contractor
Project Overview
P.P. O’Connor was engaged by Eric Wright Civil Engineering (EWCE) to deliver site clearance, earthworks and access road construction at Blackpool Airport. Works included the removal of existing chain link fencing and roadway, construction of a new access road in sub-base and reinstatement of the old road using topsoil generated from the excavations – a considered approach that minimised waste and made best use of site-won material.
Scope of Works
The project was delivered across a short programme timeline in March 2020. Following initial inductions, mobilisation and a pre-commencement survey, the team carried out site strip over 12 days before undertaking bulk earthworks, sub-base placement and off-site disposal concurrently. A completion survey and formal client handover concluded the programme, followed by full demobilisation.
Key activities included the clearance of existing chain link fencing, breaking out and excavating the existing roadway, and crushing and storing the resulting material on site for reuse. The new access road formation was then excavated, graded and tested, with Terram 1000 geotextile membrane laid across the formation before MOT sub-base was placed and compacted in two layers to specification. Topsoil generated during excavation was retained and used to reinstate the old road, avoiding unnecessary export and demonstrating a practical commitment to sustainable construction. GPS technology was used throughout for level control, ensuring accuracy across all formation and sub-base layers.
Working in a Live Airport Environment
The project presented unique logistical and safety challenges given its airside location. All operatives were required to complete both an EWCE induction and a Blackpool Airport security induction prior to commencing works. A strict 10mph site speed limit was enforced at all times, and plant and personnel movements were confined to a demarcated area agreed with Blackpool Fire Service. No plant was permitted within the sightline of Air Traffic Control, all materials were fully secured to prevent foreign object debris reaching the runway, and a direct emergency contact line to ATC was maintained throughout. All gates were kept locked when not in use, with material deliveries controlled by an EWCE gateman.
In-house fleet and equipment deployed
- 20–35 tonne excavator with breaker attachment
- 20–35 tonne excavator with grab attachment
- 30 tonne dump trucks
- Roller (compaction)
- Crusher (on-site processing of excavated roadway material)
- GPS survey and level control equipment
- Stihl saw (fencing removal)
- Low loaders (plant delivery and removal)
Health, Safety & Environment
P.P. O’Connor operated a robust safe system of work throughout, with hold points for client inspection built into the programme at key stages. A banksman attended all times during plant movements. All operatives held relevant CSCS and CPCS certifications, with asbestos awareness training required for all ground-breaking operatives. Dust suppression measures, eye protection and ear defenders were mandated during breaking out works and all fuel tanks were double-bunded with spill kits on standby. First aid provision was maintained on site, with Blackpool Victoria Hospital identified as the nearest emergency facility.
Outcome
The project was completed within the agreed short programme timeframe. By crushing and storing excavated road material on site and reusing topsoil to reinstate the old road, P.P. O’Connor eliminated unnecessary import and export, delivering both programme and environmental benefits. Works were handed over to the client in full accordance with the specification, following pre-commencement and completion surveys carried out by P.P. O’Connor.