ANCHOR VERTICA PREFERRED FOR SPLIT LEVEL CAR PARK IN HASLINGDEN

A segmental block retaining wall from Maccaferri, specialists in retaining structures, soil reinforcement and erosion protection, has been used in the construction of a split-level car park on the site of the new Tesco store in Haslingden, Lancashire. Separating the upper and lower levels, a 130m Anchor Vertica segmental retaining wall system has been completed, creating a firm foundation for the upper level and supporting a ramp linking the two car parks. Graham Bell of Maccaferri explains: “Anchor Vertica was selected due to it offering very pleasing aesthetics with rapid product rates.”

Providing a design and consultancy service in addition to the supply of materials, Maccaferri was also able to help main contractors, Dudley Construction and consulting engineers, Pinnacle with the design of crash barriers for the upper level. Maccaferri Major Projects Manager, David Crowther worked with the team on the detailed design, ensuring that the Anchor Vertica offered a suitable foundation for Armco barrier.

Comprising Anchor Vertica pre-cast concrete blocks with Paragrid 30/15 polyester geogrid, the retaining wall is straight for some 70m. Three metres in height for much of its length, the level falls gradually as it curves around to support the vehicle access ramp.

Visually a more appealing alternative to reinforced concrete, Anchor Vertica features a split face finish and is available in a range of masonry colours. For the Tesco car park, Sandstone was chosen to match existing stone walls.

The groundworks were subcontracted to Glasgow-based JC Allan Plant & Civil Engineering Ltd. A cut-and-fill technique was used to create the upper and lower levels and, although Anchor Vertica is a mortarless system and does not require skilled labour, a bricklaying subcontractor, William Ogilvy of Rawtenstall was employed to ensure a perfect finish.

Anchor Vertica, Landmark and Diamond pre-cast concrete blocks are manufactured by Northern Ireland-based block and paving manufacturer Acheson & Glover, under licence from US-based company Anchor Wall Systems Ltd, while Paragrid is manufactured by Linear Composites. Maccaferri provides engineering, design support and exclusive distribution for all these products in the UK. Anchor Vertica, Anchor Landmark and Linear Composites Paragrid are all BBA Certified.

Maccaferri Ltd specialises in the supply of gabions, geotextiles, geogrids and geomats. In addition to a full range of products for retaining structures, soil reinforcement and erosion protection, the company offers an in-house design and consultancy service.