Welcome to e-focus, our occasional regional newsletter that aims to update you on Pennine's activities in your area.

Pennine Helps Phoenix Rise from the Ashes

Pennine has just completed a landmark contract at the former Longbridge MG Rover site near Birmingham - in a fortnight.

That's how long it took to sink 1,300 stone columns to kick-start a £15 million redevelopment scheme at the proposed Longbridge technology park.

Using a top-feed method, the vibro stone columns were installed to the main foundations and slabs of two office blocks and beneath a large stretch of retaining wall on the site of the north car park before work starts on the buildings, which will house businesses employing up to 650 people.

The principal contractor, John Sisk and Sons Ltd, needed a quick start for the fast-moving project and Pennine came up trumps by meeting the competitive start date and completing the job within an impressive two weeks.

Contract Manager David Rickson said: “The main challenge was responding to the quick start required by the client - and we completed the job on time.

“Preparation of the site - demolition and site levelling - was finished ahead of schedule and the client wanted to maximise this advantage by starting the ground improvements works early”.

Be in the Know About Geotechnical Processes

Professionals seeking to know more about ground improvement and piling techniques and their application for different projects can now benefit from a range of presentations offered by Pennine.

We now offer two accredited CPD presentations, one on ground improvement that looks at the technical, construction, design and quality control aspects of various solutions along with case histories.

The new addition to the CPD list introduces Penpile® our auger displacement piling system, and describes the benefits of the Pennine patented technique - no spoil, low levels of noise and vibration during installation. It's also economical and can be used in most soil types.

To book either of these presentations for your office contact elizabeth.thompson@pennine-group.co.uk

Introducing Sally Dowgill

Geotechnical engineer Sally Dowgill is the estimator for the North and Midlands regions.

Sally, who has worked for Pennine for more than two years, graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in geography.

She's based at our Bacup head office, but would be only too pleased to arrange a meeting with you in your region. Contact her on 01706 877555 or at sally.dowgill@pennine-group.co.uk