Glasshouse Complex

This major horticultural infrastructure project involved the design and construction of all groundworks, foundations, and below-ground services for a 5-acre (20,234m²) glasshouse expansion at one of the UK's leading commercial growing operations. The project required extensive ground investigation works prior to construction, revealing made-ground and variable soil conditions that necessitated a bespoke pad and strip foundation solution across the full site. Over 3,400 tonnes of imported Type 1 aggregate were installed to create a stable sub-base, while 180 individual pad foundations were constructed to receive the glasshouse steelwork anchor points. A complex below-ground service network — including heating flow and return pipework, electrical ducting, and irrigation mainlines — was installed and pressure-tested before backfill. The project was managed in phased sections to allow the glasshouse steelwork contractor to follow immediately behind, reducing the overall programme for the client.

“Five acres of engineered ground — the platform for a £12m commercial growing operation.”