Feasibility studies

 TGMS feasibility studies draw on a wide range of data sources and site investigations to provide the Client with a detailed report on their site and the proposed development in order that a detailed project plan can be developed, whether this be for the an extension to an existing cemetery, or for the construction of a new cemetery.  In order to conduct a meaningful study in terms of the accuracy of budget estimates for the development and likelihood of gaining EA approval, it is important that a thorough site investigation and risk assessment is conducted.  TGMS site investigations comprise the following:

Topographic Survey 

Topographic (levels) information provides a datum for soil and water observations and a basis for the design of drainage infrastructure to mitigate risk to the environment from potential pollutants.  TGMS use state-of-the-art RTK-GPS equipment that is accurate to within +/- 10 mm in terms of position and within +/- 30 mm with respect to altitude.  Because of the high sampling frequency (5 readings/second) of the GPS equipment, we can collect very detailed topographic survey data, rapidly. Once collected, these data are corrected to the Ordnance Survey datum and then imported into industry standard software (AutoCAD Civil 3D 2009, Arcmap GIS 9.3), where they are processed to produce topographic maps and drawings. 

Soil  Survey

 

TGMS has developed the use of Electro-Magnetic Inductance (EMI) scanning to determine (non-invasively) variability in soil type and condition that would not be identified from a conventional site visit.  When linked with RTK-GPS information, we are able to produce detailed mapping of the results.

The results from the scanner are predominately affected by clay content and water content and so the technique provides a rapid means for determining the most appropriate locations around a site for conducting more detailed analyses of the soil, including the removal of samples for subsequent laboratory analysis.  Very often, the EMI scan can also detect the presence of buried infra-structure such as drainage pipes, electricity cables, water mains and building footings.

       

The scan images are used to determine the most appropriate locations for excavating pits to characterise the soil type and water regime.

In addition, the underlying geology and hydrogeology may be assessed by observing the composition of soil cores extracted during the installation of bore holes.

Asset Mapping

Using the same RTK-GPS equipment as that employed for topographic surveys, TGMS are able to map other site features relevant to the feasibility study such as the position of roads, paths and inspection chambers.  These data are imported into AutoCAD Civil 3D where they can be exported in electronic file formats (e.g. .dwg) or printed in hard copy.

Development options The information derived from the risk assessment and feasibility study is used to produce recommendations for development options, including budget estimates, to mitigate risk to the environment and to provide a robust approach to assessing the overall project viability.

For more information feel free to contact us on Tel: 01234 756040 or email via our online contact system