Hertford Union Canal, St Marks, Victoria Park – UK

Project Overview

Along the banks of the Hertford Union Canal, an exposed cut had stood for three months while sheet piling work took place to the tow path above. Due to an existing brick sewer underneath the canal, the sheet piling could not be driven to the required depth. This resulted in the need to support the sheet piling to prevent overturning owing to the pressure from soil behind. As heavy machinary could not access the site, nor would be suitable due to the excavated and unsuported cut, a handheld method for installation was required. Platipus Anchors were specified to secure the sheet piling, allowing re-instatement of the tow path along this 21m section of canal.

Solution

Following four suitability tests, Platipus S8 anchors delivered excellent performance and would still allow installation by hand. A waling beam was used to support the sheet piling and spread the load from the anchors. A total of 24 S8 anchors were installed 10^o below horizontal to a depth of 5m, with 12mm threaded bar. Backfill was then compacted in the space behind the sheet piling, following which the anchors were verfiried to a 15kN proof load and 10kN working load. Once complete the temporary dewatering works were removed, restoring full access to the canal and towpath.