Some issues associated with the preparation of a review of foundation conditions in Great Britain

Abstract

Abstract The Department of the Environment commissioned Wimpey Environmental Limited, with the National House-Building Council, to undertake research to establish whether planners should take greater account of foundation conditions in preparing development plans and in considering planning applications. Existing information on factors such as compressible ground, shrinkage and swelling, saturated and loose granular deposits, frost susceptibility, groundwater conditions, durability of construction materials, and gas emissions, was reviewed. It was concluded that some of these factors may be material planning considerations whilst others are likely to remain only a matter for site development and Building Control. Soil survey digital data were used as a basis for 1:250 000 and 1:625 000 scale maps showing the general geographical extent of selected potential foundation problems in Great Britain. These, together with reports, provide information on ground conditions to planners and developers which will help to increase awareness of the problems and of the purposes, procedures and benefits of thorough site investigation. The preparation of the maps was guided by a database of site investigation information which should be of use to those who are undertaking more detailed consideration of sites.