1. Paul Woodfield Branlows, Ltd.
U.K. Practice
Paul Woodfield
Branlows, Ltd.

2. Trend toward larger diameter mini-piles (450/600 mm)
Self-Drilled micropiles gaining favour
Temporary-façade ret/tower crane
Permanent LUL

3. Continuing improvement in drilled techniques
Concentric overburden
Trend towards greater diameter also –
GPO ± 1.5 mm
Limited opportunity for U.S. style micropile due to
Cautious engineering – fear of new
Procurement process – no time
(e.g., Heron Quay) – no funds for tests

4. 140/170 top driven piles being used extensively with big rigs/open site
Mini-rig opportunities are there but concerns with joint
Increase in use of smaller diameter piles for city centre contiguous walls

5. Other Issues Not enough site investigation/testing Too short lead-ins
Focus on bottom line – power of Q/S is increasing – Q/S presentations
Indiscriminate use of mini-rig CFA
Insurance premiums have rocketed
Challenging times