Project
Our client was investigating the financial and environmental benefits of using groundwater in place of mains wate for their new manufacturing plant in the east of England.
Although the immediate ground conditions beneath the site were well characterised, the deeper geology required to support a groundwater source had not been investigated.
Data Acquired
LMCL undertook a baseline assessment of the deeper geology to understand the potential groundwater sources underlying the site. This included a review of the hydrogeological characteristics of the relevant geological units and an assessment of the licensing potential of the identified groundwater bodies.
This was particularly important as, although groundwater may be present within the geological units, regulatory restrictions can limit its abstraction and use.
The assessment also considered whether the groundwater was likely to be available in sufficient quantity and of suitable quality to support the manufacturing plant’s requirements.
Analysis
A Borehole Feasibility Study was produced, outlining the local geology, hydrogeology and relevant regulatory considerations. The findings were summarised as a percentage likelihood of the various geological units being capable of supporting the required abstraction.
As requested by the client, a borehole schematic and indicative location plan were also produced to support future discussions regarding the potential groundwater source.
Conclusion
Although, in this instance, both regulatory and ground constraints mean that it is unlikely the site will proceed with a groundwater source, our Hydrogeology team was able to provide the client with greater confidence regarding the potential for obtaining their water requirements from groundwater.
This enabled the client to make an informed decision and avoid the cost of proceeding with exploratory drilling where there was a limited likelihood of obtaining the required abstraction licence.
