bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Subsidence hazard prediction for limestone terrains, as applied to the English Cretaceous Chalk
Authors: Edmonds C. N. , Green C. P. , Higginbottom I. E. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Soluble carbonate rocks often pose a subsidence hazard to engineering and building works, due to the presence of either metastable natural solution features or artificial cavities. There is also an inherent danger to the public and lives have been lost because of unexpected ground collapses. Although site investigation techniques are becoming increasingly elaborate, the detection of hazardous ground conditions associated with limestones is frequently difficult and unreliable. Remedial measures to solve subsidence problems following foundation failure are expensive. It would be advantageous if areas liable to subsidence could be identified in a cost-effective manner in advance of planning and ground investigation. Hazard mapping could then be used by planners when checking the geotechnical suitability of a proposed development or by engineering geologists/geotechnical engineers to design the type of ground investigation best suited to the nature and scale of the potential hazard.
Recent research focussed on the English Chalk outcrop has led to the development of two new models to predict the subsidence hazard for both natural solution features and artificial cavities. The predictive models can be used to map the hazard at any given chalkland locality, as a cost-effective precursor to ground investigation. The models, although created for the Chalk outcrop, have important implications for all types of limestone terrain.
The basis of the predictive modelling procedure is an analysis of the spatial distribution of nearly 1600 natural solution features, and more than 850 artificial cavity locations, identified from a wide varietyy of sources, including a special appeal organized by CIRIA. A range of geological, hydrogeological and geomorphological factors are evaluated to identify significant relationships with subsidence. These factors are ranked, numerically weighted and incorporated into two quantitative subsidence hazard model formulae. The models can be applied to perform hazard mapping.
Landslide hazard assessment techniques for planning purposes: a review
Authors: Hearn G. J. , Fulton A. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractRecently, there has been a growing interest, both in the UK and abroad, in the use of land evaluation and hazard assessment techniques for planning purposes. Both engineering geologists and planners have become increasingly aware of the benefits to be gained from these techniques of rapid and cost-effective terrain and hazard assessment. However, the application of these techniques and the interpretation of the information they provide need clarification in order to be of direct use to planners.This paper will summarize the techniques, presently available, of land evaluation and hazard assessment and focus attention on defining the engineering geological and planning criteria that control the success with which these techniques can be used effectively. Land evaluation techniques will be considered briefly in view of the large volume of literature already available on this subject. The paper will concentrate on hazard assessment techniques whose potential has been under-utilized in the UK, particularly for planning purposes.Particular emphasis will be placed on mass movement hazards.Techniques available for evaluating these hazards include, satellite imagery, air photograph interpretation, hazard and susceptibility mapping, surface geological and geomorphological mapping, sub-surface geotechnical investigation and monitoring. These will be discussed in respect of the scale of the investigation or planning objectives and the assumptions, data requirements and interpretative capability of each technique.
Planning for development in metalliferous mining areas in South West England
Authors: Roche D. P. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Planning for development in mining areas should include full consideration of the possibility of hazards associated with abandoned mineworkings. An adequate amount of study and investigation should enable use of land to be optimized by avoiding the high risk zones, and assist in realistic land evaluation and estimation of development costs. This paper describes a typical mining study and investigation for a site scheduled for development, and the planning implications commonly encountered. The approach is illustrated by a series of thematic map diagrams conveying factual information and interpretation, and based on experience in the metalliferous mining region of SW England. It demonstrates the potential for successful application of this type of approach to planning in areas in which abandoned mineworkings can pose a major hazard to development.
Risk assessment in dolomitic terrain: a case history
Authors: Venter I. S. , Gregory B. J. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The dewatering of dolomitic groundwater compartments in the Far West Rand in the Transvaal Province of South Africa has, in the past, resulted in ground movements in the form of subsidences and sinkholes. These have caused damage to various structures and in some instances loss of life. Dewatering of these compartments has taken place as a result of economic and safety considerations for the continued operation and development of deep-level gold mines in these areas. The dewatering of another groundwater compartment is currently underway. Consequently, a risk assessment, primarily to evaluate the potential for sinkhole development, was prepared for the main highways crossing the compartment.
Risk assessment in dolomitic terrain is a much debated subject, the main reason being the subjectivity of the various approaches. It is generally accepted, however, that a number of factors affect subsurface stability, for example, the position of the watertable, the presence of weak, dolomitic residuum, bedrock characteristics and the ponding of surface-water. A combination of methods was utilized to produce a final assessment. These included a multivariate classification system and comparison with published data collated by the Geological Survey of South Africa. The methods and results of the risk assessment are discussed together with possible alternative solutions for maintaining the traffic routes and for ensuring the safety of road users.
The mapping and assessment of aggregate resources in the south Midlands and Welsh Borderland
Authors: Ambrose K. , Cannell B. , Moorlock B. S. P. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
It is becoming increasingly important to delimit resources of aggregates, especially near densely populated industrial areas, where the demand is greatest. Knowledge of these resources is needed by both planners and the aggregates industry. The British Geological Survey (BGS) has recently carried out detailed surveys in the south Midlands and Welsh Borderland, under contracts from the Department of the Environment. The areas are covered by the Warwick, Redditch, Tewkesbury, Worcester and Hereford 1:50 000 geological maps, most of which had not previously been geologically surveyed in detail. The most important element in the surveys, therefore, was the 1:10 000 geological mapping, involving studies of the superficial deposits and solid rocks. There are extensive spreads of sand and gravel in all these districts, deposited by glacial, fluvioglacial, periglacial or fluvial activity.
In addition to the mapping, boreholes were drilled in some areas to supplement the data already available. The Industrial Minerals Assessment Unit (IMAU) of the BGS also carried out a shallow drilling programme as part of a resource assessment in the Redditch-Rugby area.
Between Redditch and Solihull, various drilling, geophysical and remote-sensing techniques were used by IMAU to evaluate their use in assessing sand and gravel resources. The most effective method proved to be shallow resistivity measurements, using an Offset Wenner system, backed up by cable percussion drilling. The same resistivity technique proved to be especially useful, in the Worcester, Hereford and Henley-in-Arden areas, for locating sand and gravel beneath alluvial silts.
Gravel deposits near Worcester were investigated using an EM31 conductivity meter. The local geology, comprising river terrace gravels overlying mudstone bedrock, is ideally suited to this method. Thickness variation in the gravel deposits could be obtained quickly by grid traverses, covering the area at a rate of about 1 square kilometre per day.
Engineering geological considerations of the transitional authorization procedures for opencast coal mining in the United Kingdom
Authors: Bate K. J. , Hake S. S. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
This paper briefly describes the historical planning situation with regard to opencast coal mines in
this country since the Defence General Regulations, 1939. More detailed clarification and discussion is devoted
to the transitional arrangements for the authorization of opencast coal mining currently in operation since their
formal adoption in March 1984.
The over-riding requirement for the comprehensive scrutiny of applications with particular reference to the
need for full engineering geological and geotechnical appraisals within the current planning framework for
opencast coal operations is defined and discussed. The general methodology and constructional activities
associated with the operation of opencast coal sites are described, together with the impact on the surrounding
environment and the advantages connected with opencasting operations. Furthermore, the respective roles of
both the Mineral Planning Authorites and British Coal (previously the National Coal Board) are discussed.
Additionally, the general public’s opportunities to respond to opencasting issues, and the use of the public
inquiry system in the context of opencast coal mining and the planning procedure are briefly discussed.
Finally, conclusions are presented against the background of the current transitional authorization
procedures for opencast coal sites. These conclusions deal with the requirement to establish, without delay, a
new and effective legislative procedure and the need for a change in approach to site selection and design from
the point of view of environmental impact. An urgent review of opencasting issues within the planning
framework is recommended in order to establish coherent, flexible and acceptable guidelines against which sites
can be designed, controlled and adjudged. Such a review would necessarily incorporate detailed environmental,
engineering geological and geotechnical appraisals to assess the compatibility of proposed coal sites with the
surrounding areas.
The influence of subsidence due to present day coal mining on surface development
Authors: Bell F. G. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Urban development and redevelopment in areas of present day coal mining faces a potential problem due to associated subsidence. Obviously the main aim of a developer is to produce a successful development with economy of design and minimization of any subsequent subsidence damage so that structures fulfil their function throughout their design life.
Subsidence associated with modern methods of total extraction can be regarded as more or less contemporaneous with the mining activity. This, together with the fact that subsidence normally is predictable within about ±10 per cent, allows development to occur either after subsidence or by taking protective measures. The latter may involve special design in mine layout or of the structures to be built.
Guidelines for designing and inspecting excavated quarry slopes
Authors: Walton G. , Brook D. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
A Department of the Environment sponsored review of the stability and hydrogeology of deep quarries has shown that current geotechnical practice in the extractive industry ranges from good to non-existent. A similar state of understanding of geotechnical matters existed amongst Mineral Planning Authorities
(MPAs). Some statutory bodies were much concerned with the variability of information supplied to them by
MPAs with which they had to assess the short and long term security of their structures and services. The use of
standoffs and clearances around the quarries is unreliable since each quarry has unique ground conditions.
Consequently, guidelines have been prepared for the investigation of slope stability at quarry boundaries and to
cover the inspection and assessment of existing quarry slopes.
These guidelines seek to identify the steps that should be followed when designing and examining slopes.The information to be collected is noted, together with the presentation of the findings and the specifications of slope
designs. An inspection report form which could be used in conjunction with statutory daily inspections, is
presented. The authors hope that the guidelines will be used, and will form the basis for good practice within the
extractive industry, and that MPAs will seek stability reports, prepared according to the guidelines, when there is
justifiable concern about the long term security of neighbouring land.
The sunken lanes of Southern England: Engineering geological considerations
Authors: Barton M.E. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
This paper examines the geological, geotechnical and environmental planning problems of the
sunken lanes, or hollow ways, of Southern England. Sunken lanes are generally ascribed to the downcutting
action of wheeled traffic on the formerly un-made road, augmenting and accelerating the natural processes of
weathering and erosion. The road may be at least several metres below general ground level with a cutting slope
in the natural strata and which may be wholly, or partly, vegetated.
Sunken lanes must have evolved before road surfacing but the banks are still subject to degradation and
although the rate is extremely slow, failure by spalling, debris-sliding or debris-flow may occur. From a site
investigation point of view they are difficult to investigate geologically because of a variable extent of weathered
mantle and because trial pitting is usually impractical. The materials of the bank can range from loose sand of
the weathered mantle, weakly locked or locked sands and harder, cemented rock bands or masses. In most cases,
stability cannot be quantified by traditional soil or rock mechanics methods.
Where failure of the bank occurs, the Highway Authority may have the problem of assessing stability from
engineering geological considerations. The question posed in such cases, is whether the failure represents an
isolated occurrence or will it mean an accelerating rate of degradation with further, more frequent and/or larger
failures. Since sunken lanes are usually narrow and winding, the fallen material becomes a traffic hazard and a
decision may be made that engineering measures are required. These could include re-grading, retaining walls,
revetting, gabions or protection by nylon or steel mesh.
Sunken lanes are an attractive feature of the landscape, providing scenic variety, a window on the solid
geology and a reminder of the past. It would be a loss were all potentially unstable cuttings 'engineered' to
provide a safe but purely artificial road bank. This is a problem for environmental planners: to what extent can
some hazard be accepted in the interests of conserving a very characteristic feature in the landscape?
The importance of pedological soil survey in land use planning, resource assessment and site investigation
Authors: Lee E. M. , Griffiths J. S. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The ever increasing pressure for infra-structural development in the UK heightens the conflict between the different land use demands placed on an area. This is reflected in the need for planning authorities to assess the relative suitability of potential land uses. Such assessments are important in guiding urban development away from good quality agricultural land. It is manifest that such planning decisions should be made on the basis of a comprehensive review of all relevant factors, and in particular, this includes the pedological soil conditions with their controlling influence on the ability of the land to support different land uses.
Past pedological studies have tended to concentrate on the evaluation of land suitability for agricultural uses. However, such studies are also of value when assessing the suitability of other potential uses including, forestry, recreational uses, natural resources or general infrastructure development.
In site investigations for infrastructure or resource development pedological studies have a role to play both at the feasibility and detailed investigation stages. During a feasibility study, particularly when used in conjunction with a programme of geotechnical mapping, a pedological approach to the examination of point samples can be an important aid in the determination of the areal extent of engineering soil units. In detailed investigations pedological assessments during pitting operations can determine such items as the depth of topsoil to be removed and stored during stripping, if a profile has developed through in-situ weathering of bedrock or a derived superifical cover and will assist in the identification of poor drainage areas
In this paper examples are presented of soil surveys used to assess the suitability of areas for recreational use, urban development and forestry. Also, by comparing the approaches to soil description contained within BS 5930, Code of Practice for Site Investigations (British Standards Institution 1981), and the Soil Survey Field Handbook (Hodgson 1974), some recommendations are made for adopting pedological description techniques in geotechnical site investigations.
Hazardous and radioactive waste management: a case of dual standards?
Authors: Chapman N. A. , Williams G. M. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The recent activity by the UK Nuclear industry to investigate the safety of sites in shallow ground for the disposal of low level radioactive wastes has not surprisingly prompted comparison with landfill facilities in which toxic wastes are being deposited. The conclusion is that the level of site investigation, operation and long term performance assessment proposed for the radwaste sites is many orders of magnitude greater than that required by the regulatory authorities for landfills where the operators responsibility for the safety of the site virtually disappears once the last load of waste is tipped and the disposal licence lapses. Furthermore, the research budget for radwaste exceeds that for landfill disposal by a similar amount even though the risk from radwaste can be shown to be many times less than that from toxic wastes. Since the same government department is in charge of radwaste and landfill disposal, it seems that dual standards are operating, and that either the radwaste managers are being singled out for unfair scrutiny, or that insufficient attention is being directed at the real threat to the environment from 'antediluvian and ramshackle' landfill practices.
Planning and engineering in relation to waste disposal: a case study of the Alkerton landfill
Authors: Williams G. M. , Stuart A. , Coulter P. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The integration of planning with geology and engineering is essential in the successful location and development of landfill sites, particularly in areas which are not intrinsically safe for waste disposal without engineering improvements. Although technical matters often form the primary basis for site selection, planning constraints and political factors can be as important and yet may receive less emphasis by the developers. Selection of a site can arouse concern amongst local people who consider that they will be adversely affected, despite assurances from the developer, and the formation of local action groups employing specialist expertise to oppose development of landfill sites, is now common-place. Landfill developers must therefore address technical, planning and public acceptability matters equally and effectively, in an integrated way, and must ensure that prediction of the impact of the landfill on the environment and its affect on the community proves to be accurate to maintain the credibility of the developer and the planning authorities.
Recently, Oxfordshire County Council faced co-ordinated oppostion to their proposals to develop a landfill near the picturesque village of Alkerton, near Banbury. Because of the risk of pollution to nearby springs perceived by the local community, the Council created a containment site by constructing a clay trench through the vestigial ironstone, keyed into the relatively impermeable underlying silts and clays. The landfill has been operated to reduced infiltration and leachate production, and regular monitoring of environmental conditions has been carried out in conjunction with representatives from the Parish Council.
This paper describes the interplay between planning, technical and political factors on which the decision to approve the development was based. The results of subsequent monitoring and the long term implications for site operations as a result of the engineering solution adopted, are also discussed.
Geological and environmental constraints on the disposal of low-level radioactive wastes in the UK
Authors: McEwen T. J. , Balch C. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The geological, planning and environmental factors which have led to the definition of areas of search, and eventually to specific sites, which are potentially suitable for the disposal of low-level radioactive wastes in near-surface engineered structures are considered. Areas of search were determined for inland sites by first defining the areas of outcrop within the UK of the London Clay, Gault, Kimmeridge Clay, Oxford Clay, Lower Lias and Mercia Mudstone Group: the major argillaceous formations, chosen because of their low hydraulic conductivities, and then removing areas from such outcrops of clay using environmental and planning factors. The first of these factors was population density. Areas included within National Scenic Areas (Scotland), National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and SSSIs were then removed. Transport of the waste from its sources of production is of major significance, and contours of equal accessibility were constructed. In assessing coastal environments, similar environmental and planning considerations were taken into account, but a variety of geological environments were considered.
Within the areas of search thus defined, searches were made of all areas of available land of sufficient size for repository development. Each site found during this search was then examined for its suitability in terms of its geology, hydrogeology, planning and environmental factors, and separate shortlists drawn up for inland and coastal sites. In assessing these short-listed sites in more detail, three groups of factors were considered: safety (geological and hydrogeological), planning (population density, road and rail access, resource sterilisation, operational and constructional impact etc.) and technical (capacity of the site, ease of constructability). Small adaptations to the analysis, such as the type of coastal environment, were required for coastal sites to take into account different objectives underlying coastal repository development. Multi-attribute analysis was then carried out by ascribing scores and weightings to all the relevant factors, and the sensitivity of the total weighted scores to the values of the weightings determined. The four sites which were announced in February 1986 are those that performed well during the multi-attribute analysis and were available for acquisition by NIREX for potential future development.