GT's structural engineer's report 1

PETER LODGE B.Eng C.Eng M.LStruct.E
Consulting Structural Engineer

8th March 2004

Green Tops Ltd

Dear Sir,

Re: Land Off Windsor View, Hebden Bridge

An inspection of the site above was made on the 24th February 2004 and the following observations recorded.

• The site is bounded along two sides by an existing masonry retaining structure to the west and sloping ground to the east.
• The sloping ground comprises of thinly bedded shale with little soil overburden.
• The wall forming the boundary to Windsor View has been constructed off the shale and it is assumed that Windsor View terrace is founded on the same material.
• The western boundary is an old masonry structure which appears to have been part of a lodge structure for the mill which once occupied the site.

The presence of the trees particularly in the vicinity of the retaining wall can be detrimental to the structure as tree roots can penetrate the construction and exert pressure which disrupts the wall's stability.

The wall bounding Windsor View is in a reasonable condition and is constructed off the shale bedrock which presents itself as a high face at the northern end of Windsor View. Tree roots have become established in this area and ground erosion has occurred due to the roots penetrating the shale - as indicated on the photograph below, which must be noted with respect to the position of the boundary wall above.

The masonry retaining structure to Spring Grove will benefit from maintenance including the removal of trees established within the area of the wall to avoid deterioration of the structure. In order to undertake maintenance the wall will require access from both sides.

The area above Spring Grove was once a dam structure which is no longer maintained and as such there is potential for the build-up of water within the confines of the old dam which could lead to problems associated with hydrostatic pressure on the remaining structure.

It is recommended that the trees on the site should be removed were there is a potential for disruption the retaining structures from the tree roots on both east and west boundaries.

Details of the influence zones for the trees identified on the site are given below, these give the root spread for the mature trees which can be seen to have a potential impact on the boundary structures if the spread of the roots are not managed.

Yours faithfully

Peter Lodge