User guide
Source: environment.data.gov.uk (2025-11-04)

Gateshead mine water heat living laboratory. This data is a collection of data from sensors deployed as part of the Gateshead Living Lab, pertaining to mine water level, mine water chemistry, mine water temperature, pore water pressures and borehole temperature profiles.

OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE 
 
 
 
 
 
User Guide 
Gateshead mine water heat living laboratory 
dataset 
 
 
May 2025 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Version Control 
 
Version Produced by 
Approved by 
Comments 
Date 
1.0 
Dan Mallin Martin 
Fiona Todd 
Charlotte 
Adams 
Gareth Farr 
Initial document 
17/04/24 
2.0 
Dan Mallin Martin 
Fiona Todd 
Rebecca Chambers 
Gareth Farr 
Updated to include Stadium 
site, new logger details, new 
ground level information and 
name changed to Mining 
Remediation Authority  
15/01/25 
3.0 
Dan Mallin Martin 
Rebecca Chambers 
Fiona Todd 
 
Updated to include corrected 
casing details in drilling reports 
and amended grid references 
for Stadium site.  
01/05/25 
 
Key words: 
Living lab, mine water heat, mine water level, mine water temperature, mine water quality, 
monitoring boreholes, Gateshead  
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Contents 
 
Version Control 
0 
Contents 
0 
1 
Summary 
1 
2 
Introduction 
1 
3 
About the Gateshead living lab dataset 
2 
3.1 
Background 
2 
3.2 
Dataset History 
2 
3.3 
Who might use this dataset? 
3 
3.4 
What the dataset includes 
3 
3.5 
Coverage 
4 
4 
Living Lab site information 
5 
4.1 
Bede Monitoring site 
5 
4.2 
Gateshead Stadium site 
8 
5 
Technical Information 
11 
5.1 
Definitions 
11 
5.2 
Data Format 
11 
5.3 
Field Descriptions 
12 
5.4 
Data update frequency 
15 
6 
Licensing Information 
15 
7 
Limitations and exclusion of liability 
15 
Appendix A: Drilling reports for Bede and Stadium 
16 
Appendix B: VWP calibration file - Bede 
17 
Appendix C: VWP calibration file - Stadium 
19 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
1 Summary  
This document provides information for users of the data generated by the Gateshead mine water 
heat living laboratory (known as “Gateshead living lab” for short). It outlines why the dataset was 
created and how it should be used. Technical information regarding how the data was created is 
described, and details of the data format and how to use the data are also presented. 
 
2 Introduction 
The Mining Remediation Authority, the trading name of the Coal Authority since November 2024, 
(“The Authority”) manages the effects of past coal mining, including subsidence damage claims 
which are not the responsibility of licensed coal mine operators. It deals with mine water pollution 
and other mining legacy issues. It also owns, on behalf of the country, the majority of the 
subsurface coal mining infrastructure in Britain, and licenses coal mining and access to our 
property.  
We use our skills to provide services to other government departments and agencies, local 
governments and commercial partners. We contribute to the delivery of the UK Government’s 
Industrial Strategy and the environmental, social and economic priorities of the UK, Scottish and 
Welsh Governments.  
By sharing our knowledge and expertise we support them, and our partners, to create cleaner, 
greener nations for us all. Our purpose is to: 
 
keep people safe and provide peace of mind 
 
protect and enhance the environment 
 
use our information and expertise to help people make informed decisions 
 
create value and minimise cost to the taxpayer 
 
The Mining Remediation Authority is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the 
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. 
Further information on all the digital data available from the Authority can be found on our website 
at  https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/mining-remediation-authority or by contacting 
xxx@xxx.xx. 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
3 About the Gateshead living lab dataset 
3.1 Background  
The Gateshead mine water heat living laboratory (Gateshead living lab) is a flagship part of the 
Mining Remediation Authority’s mine heat R&D programme to improve understanding of how mine 
heat schemes operate and interact. Data and understanding of thermal and hydraulic interactions 
between adjacent mine water heat schemes will support ongoing licensing by the Mining 
Remediation Authority, regulation by environmental agencies and support R&D and development 
of mine water heat opportunities across Great Britain.  It has been funded and designed by the 
Mining Remediation Authority with the permission of Gateshead Council (landowner) and is located 
between the Gateshead Energy Company heat network and two other mine water heat schemes 
developed by Lanchester Wines, at their bonded warehouses in Felling. The Gateshead living lab is 
Britain’s first dedicated borehole monitoring network designed to observe temperatures and water 
levels as mine heat schemes operate over the long term. The data generated will complement the 
research work underway at the mine water heat observatory developed in Glasgow by BGS as part 
of the UKGEOS project by providing insights on the potential for hydraulic, thermal or 
hydrogeochemical interactions between operational schemes. 
A fundamental aspect of the Gateshead living lab is the open access provision of the monitoring 
data to allow operators, regulators and other interested parties to understand how and if 
temperatures, water levels and chemistry change within the mine workings, and especially what, if 
any, interactions are observed when there are two operational heat schemes within the same mine 
water block.  
3.2 Dataset History  
Construction of the Gateshead living lab began in 2023 with two monitoring boreholes drilled at the 
Bede site shown in Figure 1 (formerly known as site A5). The two boreholes are “Bede – Brass Thill” 
(formerly known as BH5a) and “Bede – High Main” (formerly known as BH5b). Data loggers were 
installed in these two boreholes in May 2023 with data available from July 2023.  
A further two boreholes were drilled in May 2024 at Gateshead Stadium shown in Figure 1 
(formerly known as site A4), intersecting the High Main workings (Stadium – High Main), and the 
Hutton workings (Stadium – Hutton). Data loggers were installed in these boreholes from 
September 2024.  
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
3.3 Who might use this dataset? 
This dataset is suitable for use by a wide range of stakeholders: public and private sector 
organisations and researchers, mine water heat scheme operators and environmental regulators. 
The data show the thermal and hydraulic response within the underground mine workings as three 
mine water heat schemes operate within the Walker mine water block at Gateshead (NB operation 
will have a seasonal pattern with more heat being supplied during winter months).  
3.4 What the dataset includes 
The dataset provides time series information for each monitoring borehole including mine water 
levels, temperatures, electrical conductivities and pore water pressures. The specific data available 
for each site and monitoring point is given in Section 4, this may differ between sites.  
The units for each data type are as follows: 
 
Mine water levels (depth to water)* 
 
Manual water levels (m below datum) 
 
Mine water temperatures (°C) 
 
Mine water actual and specific electrical conductivities (µS/cm) 
 
Pore water pressure(s) down the profile of the borehole annulus (mH2O) 
 
Temperature measurements inside the borehole annulus (°C) 
 
Barometric pressure (mBar) 
 
A barometric conversion has been undertaken on the raw mine water level data to convert it to 
depth to water (i.e. m below ground level). Further information on this is available on request.  
The drilling contractor’s reports are provided as .pdf files (Appendix A) and a separate activity 
(events) log provides information on sensor maintenance.  
The data are provided in GMT unless otherwise stated. It will be indicated in the file name.  
*Note: for the initial data prior to September 2024 (Solinst logger) the water level data were 
supplied as barometrically compensated m above sensor.  
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
3.5 Coverage 
This dataset is limited to the Gateshead area, NE England. Information is available from: 
 
the Bede site, located on land adjacent to Bede Primary School, Old Fold Rd, Gateshead, 
NE10 0DJ, and  
 
Gateshead Stadium, Neilson Rd, Gateshead NE10 0EF, as shown in Figure 1.  
 
 
Figure 1: Living Lab Site locations. Bede site (blue square) and Stadium site (blue circle). 
© Crown copyright [and database rights] [2025] OS [AC0000820577]. You are permitted to use this data solely to 
enable you to respond to, or interact with, the organisation that provided you with the data. You are not permitted to 
copy, sub-license, distribute or sell any of this data to third parties in any form. 
 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
4 Living Lab site information 
4.1 Bede Monitoring site 
Monitoring borehole design 
Monitoring began at the first site (Bede) in May 2023 but data are available from July 2023 due to 
sensor issues. There are two monitoring boreholes on the site:  
 
Bede – BT (Brass Thill): 136m deep into the Brass Thill seam (Seam K)  
 
Bede – HM (High Main): 56m deep into the High Main seam (Seam E) 
 
The grid references of the boreholes are [E: 426781, N: 562670] and [E: 426792, N: 562670] for 
Brass Thill and High Main respectively. The approximate ground elevation at both locations is 
33.2 mAOD, this has been obtained from Lidar data from 2021 with a resolution of 1m and 
supersedes any previously reported elevations. Manual water levels are taken from the top of the 
4” plastic casing which is 0.275 mBGL and 0.24 mBGL for High Main and Brass Thill respectively.  
Full details of the borehole drilling and construction are provided in the drilling report provided as 
Appendix A. The borehole construction and sensor installation is shown schematically in Figure 2 
and details of the sensors deployed are given in Table 1. 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Figure 2: Bede site monitoring borehole construction and geological logs 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Sensor information 
Table 1: Bede site sensor information 
Borehole 
Sensor 
Details 
Bede–BT  
Aqua Troll 200 non-
vented (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 132 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Insitu  
Bede–BT  
Levelogger 5 LTC 
logger (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 128 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Solinst  
Note: this was replaced in Sept 2024 by the Insitu Aqua Troll logger 
Bede–BT 
Thermistor 
Two thermistor sensors deployed outside 4” casing at 49.16 mBGL and 
119.67 mBGL (on same string as VWP).  
Manufacturer: Geosense 
Bede–BT 
VWP-3000 (vibrating 
wire piezometer)  
Three vibrating wire piezometer sensors deployed outside 4” casing at 
11.56 mBGL, 27.29 mBGL and 79.70 mBGL. A calibration file for this is 
provided in Appendix B.  
Manufacturer: Geosense 
Bede–BT 
Fibre optic cable, 
single-mode and 
multi-mode fibres 
Fibre optic cable installed outside 4” casing (grouted in place) to 
119.67 mBGL. Note: no data logger installed with this cable, spot 
measurements only. 
Manufacturer: Silixa 
Bede–HM 
Aqua Troll 200 non-
vented (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 50 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Insitu  
Bede–HM 
Levelogger 5 LTC 
logger (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 50 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Solinst 
Note: this was replaced in Sept 2024 by the Insitu Aqua Troll logger 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
4.2 Gateshead Stadium site 
Monitoring borehole design 
Monitoring began at the Gateshead Stadium site in September 2024. There are two monitoring 
boreholes on the site:  
 
Stadium – H (Hutton): 188 m deep into the Hutton seam (Seam L)  
 
Stadium – HM (High Main): 82m deep into the High Main seam (Seam E) 
 
The grid references of the boreholes are [E: 427129, N: 562785 and [E: 427126 N: 562787 for Hutton 
and High Main respectively. The approximate ground elevation at both locations is 27.2 mAOD, this 
has been obtained from Lidar data from 2021 with a resolution of 1m. Manual water levels are 
taken from the top of the 4” plastic casing which is 0.28 m and 0.24 m above ground level for High 
Main and Hutton respectively.  
Full details of the borehole drilling and construction are provided in the drilling report provided as 
Appendix A. The borehole construction and sensor installation is shown schematically in Figure 2 
and details of the sensors deployed are given in Table 2. 
Due to complications encountered while drilling the pore water pressure sensors in Stadium-H 
cannot be used to provide accurate data as they are installed within external steel casing. 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure 3: Stadium site monitoring borehole construction and geological logs 
 
 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Sensor information 
Table 2: Stadium site sensor information 
Borehole 
Sensor 
Details 
Stadium-H 
Aqua Troll 200 
non-vented (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 180 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Insitu  
Stadium-H 
Thermistor 
Three thermistor sensors deployed outside 4” casing at 47.86 mBGL 
120.45 mBGL and 160.00 mBGL (on same string as VWP).  
Manufacturer: Geosense 
Stadium-H 
VWP-3000 
(vibrating wire 
piezometer)  
Three vibrating wire piezometer sensors deployed outside 4” casing at 
10.27 mBGL, 30.28mBGL and 80.22 mBGL. A calibration file for this is 
provided in Appendix B.  
Manufacturer: Geosense 
Note: The VWP sensors here cannot be used for accurate pore water 
pressures due to being installed within external steel casing 
Stadium-H 
Fibre optic cable, 
single-mode and 
multi-mode fibres 
Fibre optic cable installed outside 4” casing (grouted in place) to 
160.00 mBGL. Note: no data logger installed with this cable, spot 
measurements only. 
Manufacturer: Silixa 
Stadium-HM 
Aqua Troll 200 
non-vented (level, 
temperature and 
conductivity) 
Logger installed inside casing at an approximate depth of 73 mBGL. 
Data from this logger has been compensated for barometric pressure.  
Manufacturer: Insitu  
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
5 Technical Information 
5.1 Definitions   
Mine water blocks are a set of flooded collieries which are interconnected and exhibit a 
continuous gradient of water level across their area 
Mine water level – the position of elevation of the mine water in the workings, relative to a known 
point. Reported in either in metres above sensor (mAS), metres below ground level (mBGL) or 
metres above Ordnance Datum (mAOD). 
Mine water temperature – the temperature of the mine water in the workings (in °C), or the 
temperature of the mine water at the sensor position. 
Mine water conductivity – the specific electrical conductivity (SEC) at 25°C for the mine water in 
the workings, or at the sensor position. This is a representation of the concentration of dissolved 
ions in the mine water. The more ions dissolved, the higher the conductivity. It should be noted that 
brackish/saline waters are present within the mine workings due some influence from the adjacent 
River Tyne which is tidal in the Gateshead area. 
Pore water pressures – measured by a vibrating wire piezometer, this represents the water 
pressure in the rock mass around borehole. The piezometers have been installed with the fully 
grouted method and therefore measure the pore water pressure adjacent to their installation 
position. These are recorded as a Frequency by the sensor (as Hz, or Engineering Units (Hz2/1000), 
which is then converted to kPa, PSI or mH2O by sensor-specific linear conversion factors to provide 
an equivalent “level” above the piezometer. 
Annular temperatures – these are the temperatures (in °C) measured by the thermistors installed 
on the outside of the borehole casing, and are influenced by the groundwater/mine water and rock 
mass around the borehole. 
 
5.2 Data Format  
The data are presented in a number of .csv files for each sensor. Each .csv relates to a specific 
sensor in each borehole. Each csv contains a number of header rows from the data logger which 
display units, attributes, and any corrections applied at time of logging.  
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
5.3 Field Descriptions 
Table 3: Attribute table field descriptions (Insitu LTC logger data). Used from Sept 2024  
Data Field 
Explanation of Data Field 
Header file fields 
Report Date: 
Date data barometrically compensated 
Report User Name: 
Removed for confidentiality 
Report Computer Name: 
Removed for confidentiality 
Application:  
Download software 
Application Version: 
Download software version 
Log file properties 
File name and date of WinSitu file (e.g. converted from Vu Situ to 
WinSitu file) 
Device properties 
Properties of logging device which is installed in borehole 
Log configuration 
Information on configuration of log file. Created by and computer 
name have been removed for confidentiality.  
Level reference settings at log 
creation 
This is the manual dip data used to convert the water level recorded 
above sensor to depth to water (conversion done in logger) 
Other log settings 
Standard values used in logger 
Log notes 
Notes on compensation. All user data removed for confidentiality 
Log Data 
Data logger information 
Time Zone 
Time zone 
Data fields 
Date Time 
Date and time of reading 
Elapsed time (sec) 
Time since log started  
Corrected Pressure (bar) 
Barometrically compensated pressure of water above sensor at date 
and time 
Temperature (°C) 
Measured temperature data at sensor depth at date and time 
Corrected Level Depth to 
Water (m) 
Barometrically compensated water level in m below ground level at 
date and time 
Actual conductivity (µS/cm) 
Measured conductivity at sensor depth at date and time 
Specific conductivity (µS/cm) 
Conductivity at sensor depth at date and time standardised to 25°C 
Barometric Pressure (Bar) 
Barometric pressure recorded on baro logger at date and time and 
used for conversion  
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Table 4: Attribute table field descriptions (Solinst LTC logger data). Discontinued use after 
Sept 2024 
Data Field 
Explanation of Data Field 
Header file fields 
Serial_number 
Logger serial number 
Project ID 
Site reference 
Location 
Monitoring point location 
LEVEL UNIT 
Units for level measurements 
Offset 
Offset applied to level data 
TEMPERATURE UNIT 
Units for temperature measurements 
CONDUCTIVITY UNIT 
Units for conductivity measurements 
Data fields 
Date 
Date of reading 
Time 
Time of reading 
ms 
miliseconds 
LEVEL 
Barometrically compensated water level in m above sensor at 
date and time 
TEMPERATURE 
Measured temperature data at sensor depth at date and time 
CONDUCTIVITY 
Measured conductivity at sensor depth at date and time 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Table 5: Attribute table field descriptions (VWP and thermistor data) 
NB: The following fields apply to each channel on the data logger 
Data Field 
Explanation of Data Field 
Header file fields 
Sensorname 
Depth of installed sensor and site name 
Model 
Product name for sensor (VWP or Thermistor) 
Serial 
Serial number for sensor (if provided by manufacturer) 
Baro 
Barometric pressure at time of calibration (See Appendix B) 
Tempatcal 
Temperature at time of calibration 
LinFactor 
Linear conversion factor for VWP sensors only. Default linear 
conversion factor is for (Digits) to mH2O.  
ZeroRdg 
Zero reading at time of calibration (no applied hydrostatic pressure) 
(See Appendix B) 
ZeroT 
Temperature taken at time of zero reading during calibration (See 
Appendix B) 
Data fields 
Date/Time 
Date-time of reading taken 
VBatt 
Battery voltage in data logger at date-time 
Temp. 
Temperature measured by the data logger at surface at date-time 
Channel # 
(mH2O) 
Measured pressure at sensor point for Channel #. Reported in mH2O, 
at date-time. 
Not av. Value for thermistor only channels 
Channel # (°C) 
Temperature measured by VWP or Thermistor on data logger 
channel # at date-time. 
CH# Raw (Digits) 
Unconverted Linear Digits (Hz2x100) recorded by each channel at date-
time. 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
5.4 Data update frequency 
Data will be collected from the sensors ideally on a half yearly basis, and uploaded to the 
website/data access point. The frequency is dependent on staff availability and other project 
commitments.  
 
6 Licensing Information  
The data is accessible under the Open Government Licence (OGL v3). Full details of the conditions 
of the OGL v3 licence can be found at: https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-
licence/version/3/  
 
7 Limitations and exclusion of liability  
 
The data represented in this dataset is relevant only to the Gateshead area 
 
The Gateshead living lab data are supplied ‘as is’ without filtering or cleansing apart from 
barometric compensation of the Insitu and Levelogger LTC data. Dataloggers may malfunction 
or provide erroneous data therefore we cannot guarantee data continuity or accuracy.  
 
If users are uncertain about the use of particular data they should seek professional advice.  
 
The Mining Remediation Authority has used reasonable endeavours to verify the quality of the 
data, but gives no warranty and makes no representation that the data is complete, accurate, 
up-to-date, reliable or exhaustive.  
 
The Mining Remediation Authority makes no warranties or representations as to the suitability 
of the data for any particular use or purpose or as to the value or utility of the data. 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Appendix A: Drilling reports for Bede and 
Stadium 
 
 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 1 of 17 
 
 
 
 
DRILCORP 
REPORT 
 
BOREHOLE 
ENGINEERING 
SERVICES 
 
 
Contract: 
BC23025 
Client: 
Coal Authority 
Site: 
A5, Gateshead Living Lab 
Boreholes: 
BH1, BH2 (BH5b), BH2 (BH5a) 
Operations: 
1. BH1: mobilisation 
2. BH1: site-setup 
3. BH1: trial pit 
4. BH1: drilling ops 
5. BH1: decommissioning 
6. BH2: Mobilisation 
7. BH2: site set-up 
8. BH2: Trial Pit 
9. BH2: Drilling ops 
10. BH2: Installation of 4” pipe 
11. BH2: chamber installation 
12. BH3: mobilisation 
13. BH3: Site-setup 
14. BH3: Trial pit 
15. BH3: Drilling ops 
16. BH3: Installation of 4” pipe 
17. BH3: Chamber installation 
18. Site Re-instatement 
19. Demobilisation 
 
Version 
Date 
Modification(s) to previous version 
Issued by 
1 
04-July-2023 
N/A 
J. M. Killeen 
2 
25-July-2023 
After revision from client more information was 
required 
J. M. Killeen 
3 
11-August-2023 
After revision from client more information was 
required 
J. M. Killeen 
4 
11-October- 
2023 
After revision from client more information was 
required 
J. M. Killeen 
5 
03-january-2024 
After revision from client more information was 
required 
J. M. Killeen 
6 
28-April-2025 
After revision from client information change was 
required 
J. M. Killeen 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 2 of 17 
 
 
Tab. 1: Document history 
 
 
Overview of operations at Site 5A, 
Gateshead living lab 
 
The following report has been prepared by Drilcorp for the Coal Authority, 
This report will cover the drilling operations carried out at site A5 of the Gateshead living lab project, 
This details how Drilcorp drilled and completed two monitoring Boreholes down to the abandoned mine 
workings below Gateshead, the document will also cover the decommissioning process of BH1 (failed 
borehole) from TD (total depth) to Ground level. 
 
The two designations of the Boreholes are as follows: 
 
• 
BH2 now known as (BH5b) 
• 
BH3 now known as (BH5a) 
Designation of the Decommissioned Borehole: 
• 
BH1 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 3 of 17 
 
 
INDEX 
 
1. TABLE OF CONTENTS 
Index............................................................................................................................................................. 3 
List of tables .................................................................................................................................................. 3 
List of figures................................................................................................................................................. 4 
Borehole locations ........................................................................................................................................ 5 
1. 
Borehole 1 completion diagram (20-06-23) ............................................................................................ 6 
2. 
Borehole 2 completion diagram (17-06-23) ............................................................................................ 7 
3. 
Borehole 3 completion diagram (09-06-23) ............................................................................................ 8 
4. 
Sequence of operations ......................................................................................................................... 9 
5. 
pre-drilling ops: (Feb-2023) ................................................................................................................. 11 
6. 
Drilling Opperations (Feb-June-2023)................................................................................................... 13 
7. 
Installation (June-2023) ....................................................................................................................... 13 
8. 
Re-Instatement (June-2023) ................................................................................................................ 16 
9. 
BH1: Decommissioning ........................................................................................................................ 17 
10. Demobilisation .................................................................................................................................... 17 
LIST OF TABLES 
Tab. 1: Document history .............................................................................................................................. 2 
Tab. 2: Sequence of operations for drilling performed at BH1, BH2 and BH3 in June-2023.............................. 9 
Tab. 3: Table of cable install depths .............................................................................................................15 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 4 of 17 
 
 
LIST OF FIGURES 
 
Fig. 1: Aerial view of site A5, Gateshead living labs, and locations of BH1, BH2 (BH5b) and BH3 (BH5a) ......... 5 
Fig. 2: Diagram of BH1 decommissioning performed in June-2023 ................................................................ 6 
 
Fig. 3: Diagram of BH2 and casing installation performed in June-2023 ......................................................... 7 
Fig. 4: Diagram of BH3 after the installation of the casing and cables, performed in June-2023 ..................... 8 
 
Fig. 5: Image taken of the site-setup completed in February 2023 ...............................................................11 
Fig. 6: Image taken of the site-setup completed in February 2023 ................................................................11 
 
Fig. 7: Image taken of a trial pit being dug completed February 2023 ...........................................................12 
 
Fig. 8: Image taken of the installation of BH2 completed June-2023 .............................................................14 
Fig. 9: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, completed in June- 2023 .............................. 14 
 
Fig. 10: Image of the casing and adjoining cables completed in June-2023 ..................................................... 15 
 
Fig. 11: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, completed in June-2023 ............................. 16 
 
Fig. 12: Images acquired after the re-instatement operations carried out in June-2023 ................................17 

Page 5 of 17 
 
Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
 
BOREHOLE LOCATIONS 
 
Fig. 1: Aerial view of site A5, Gateshead living labs, and locations of BH1, BH2 (BH5b) and BH3 (BH5a) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Grid reference: 
• 
BH1: 426768 562668 
• 
BH2 (BH5b): 426792 562670 
• 
BH3 (BH5a): 426781 562670 
BH1 
426768 562668 
BH3 (BH5a) 
426781 562670 
BH2 (BH5b) 
426792 562670 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 6 of 17 
 
 
1. BOREHOLE 1 COMPLETION DIAGRAM (20-06-23) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig. 2: Diagram of BH1 decommissioning performed in June-2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 7 of 17 
 
 
2. BOREHOLE 2 (BH5B) COMPLETION DIAGRAM (17-06-23) 
 
Fig.3: Diagram of BH2 and casing installation performed in June-2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 8 of 17 
 
 
3. BOREHOLE 3 (BH5A) COMPLETION DIAGRAM (09-06-23) 
Fig.4: Diagram of BH3 after the installation of the casing and cables, performed in June-2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 9 of 17 
 
 
 
 
4. SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 
 
Tab. 2: Sequence of operations for drilling performed at BH1, BH2 and BH3 in June-2023 
Start 
End 
Borehole(s) 
Operation 
Performed by 
20-02-23 
21-02-23 
BH1 
Mobilisation 
Drilling division 
21-02-23 
21-02-23 
BH1 
Setup of site. Trial pit, rig setup 
22-02-23 
23-02-23 
BH1 
Drilling to casing depth 23.80mtrs 
24-02-23 
27-02-23 
BH1 
Casing install + grout 
27-02-23 
28-02-23 
BH1 
Prep for drilling phase 
28-02-23 
08-03-23 
BH1 
Drilling to 106.98mtrs 
08-03-23 
14-03-23 
BH1 
Flush loss 
14-03-23 
17-03-23 
BH1 
Grouting ops 
17-03-23 
23-03-23 
BH1 
Drilling ops 
23-03-23 
24-03-23 
BH1 
Grouting ops 
27-03-23 
28-03-23 
BH1 
Drilling ops to 151MBGL 
28-03-23 
29-03-23 
BH1 
Rod removal 
30-03-23 
31-03-23 
BH1 
Back filing 
15-06-23 
15-06-23 
BH1 
Back filling 
19-06-23 
20-06-23 
BH1 
Back filling 
20-06-23 
20-06-23 
BH1 
Decommissioning 
31-03-23 
31-03-23 
BH2 
Trial pit 
xx-xxxx-xxxx 
BH2 
Move equipment to BH2 location 
05-04-23 
05-04-23 
BH2 
Drilling to casing depth 23.80mtrs 
06-04-23 
11-04-23 
BH2 
Casing installation, flushing in + grout 
12-04-23 
12-04-23 
BH2 
Drilling + lost flush 
13-04-23 
13-04-23 
BH2 
Installing 7” casing 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 10 of 17 
 
 
Start 
End 
Borehole(s) 
Operation 
Performed by 
14-04-23 
18-04-23 
BH2 
Installed 7” casing to final depth of 54mtrs + drilling wit 6” bit + 
adding more casing. 
Drilling division 
19-04-23 
20-04-23 
BH2 
Drilling 
21-04-23 
21-04-23 
BH2 
Viability testing, target not hit, high main viable 
24-04-23 
25-04-23 
BH2 
Casing removal 
07-06-23 
07-06-23 
BH2 
Backfilled to 55mtrs 
08-06-23 
08-06-23 
BH2 
4” casing installed 
12-06-23 
17-06-23 
BH2 
Chamber installation ops 
15-06-23 
15-06-23 
BH2 
Airlifting ops 
26-04-23 
26-04-23 
BH3 
Mobilisation 
27-04-23 
27-04-23 
BH3 
Trial pit 
28-04-23 
02-05-23 
BH3 
Drilled to casing depth, 23.80mtrs 
02-05-23 
xx-xxxx-xxxx 
BH3 
Casing installed 
09-05-23 
10-05-23 
BH3 
Drilling ops 
11-05-23 
24-05-23 
BH3 
Grouting ops 
25-05-23 
26-05-23 
BH3 
Drilling ops to a final depth of 135.61MBGL 
30-05-23 
01-06-23 
BH3 
Install of the 4” casing and adjoining cables to 120MBGL 
02-06-23 
05-06-23 
BH3 
Grouting ops 
06-06-23 
06-06-23 
BH3 
Waggon collection 
07-06-23 
07-06-23 
BH3 
Casing cut, pit extension 
08-06-23 
08-06-23 
BH3 
Trial pit excavated, shuttering complete and plinth grouted 
09-06-23 
09-06-23 
BH3 
Chamber rings installed and trial pit grouted, 
14-06-23 
14-06-23 
BH3 
Airlifting ops 
19-06-23 
26-06-23 
BH3 
Demobilisation + re-instatement ops 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 11 of 17 
 
 
5. PRE-DRILLING OPS: (FEB-2023) 
 
Mobilisation 
The team arrived on site Monday the 20th of February 2023, once on site, the team assessed the situation 
keeping in mind determining factors such as, where the plant and equipment will be placed and if initial plans 
are still viable for permanent placement. 
 
Site-setup 
 
The team employed good traffic control techniques while escorting waggons during peak school times and 
general hours, while keeping spatial awareness in mind the plant and equipment delivered on site was 
manoeuvred in place ready for the next phase of the plan. 
 
Fig. 5: Image taken of the site-setup completed in February 2023 
 
Along with plant movement and equipment setup, the site was secured using Heras fencing, this reached 
around the entirety of site, safety signs were then attached to the fencing, the office was setup and more 
health and safety information was displayed and attached to the appropriate areas, muster points and gas 
detection zones where also marked out, and the team briefed. 
 
 
 
Fig. 6: Image taken of the site-setup completed in February 2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 12 of 17 
 
 
GPR 
A GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) survey was conducted on the 20th Feb 2023, the GPR team carried out a 
full site survey, identifying any hidden and buried services, this includes, water, gas and electrical utilities, 
the survey revealed the two known utilities running parallel with site under the walkway, the GPR team also 
mapped out and geo-tagged the BH drilling locations, marking them with both a crossed symbol and ID 
Number, with nothing found and the BH locations marked out the team proceeded with the next phase. 
 
Trial Pit 
 
With the BH locations marked out and the area giving 
the all clear for buried services, the team will begin 
marking out the trial pit, this entails, measuring the 
trial pit to the dimensions of 1.2mtrs X 1.2mtrs X 
1.2mtrs. Once measured out the team will, using the 
aid of the CAT and Genny, Breaker pack and insulated 
digging tools, begin to dig out the trial pit to the 
previously mentioned dimensions, checking for any 
buried services not found by the GPR Survey. The 
process was repeated throughout the job for the 
three trial pits, the pit serves two functions, 
Function 1: to serve as the base for the later chamber 
installation, 
Function 2: to provide a suction point for the drilling 
flush. 
 
Fig. 7: Image taken of a trial pit being dug completed February 2023 
 
 
Rig-Setup 
With the trial pit dug and the area safe for drilling completed, the team tracked the rig over to the pit, set 
the rig up over the pit, jacking the rig up and using the built in spirit levels to calibrate the correct angle of 
the mast for drilling. 
The rig is jacked and levelled so that when the drilling operations start the drilling angle will remain true and 
minimise the chances of the rods going offline. With the rig jacked up and levelled the rig can also utilise its 
full pullback weight with the jacks distributing the weight of the rig evenly. 
 
Drilling flush 
Before drilling ops can begin, the team will mix and weigh the correct amount of bentonite or Polymer to 
water, the reason we add these substances to the drilling flush is so that when we begin the drilling 
operations and throughout the job, we can maintain the structural integrity of the borehole walls and allow 
for the debris produced by the drilling process to clear the hole and rise to the surface to be collected in the 
trial pit. Both of the LCM (Loss Circulation Material) utilise the same delivery and mixing techniques into the 
drilling tanks. 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 13 of 17 
 
 
6. DRILLING OPPERATIONS (FEB-JUNE-2023) 
BH1 
The team using a 14 ¾” BHA (Bottom Hole Assembly) drilled to a depth of 23.80MBGL (Metres Below Ground 
Level) the 10” permanent casing was installed in the BH, this left a 20cm lip above ground level and was 
grouted in place. The 14 ¾” BHA was removed and replaced with a 9 5/8” BHA, the drilling operation 
continued to a final depth of 151MBGL. Loss of flush and grouting operations not producing results, led to 
the decision to abandon the BH and move onto the next location, with decommissioning operations to take 
place later. 
BH2 
The team using a 14 ¾” BHA drilled to a depth of 23.80MBGL the 10” permanent casing was be installed in 
the BH, this left a 20cm lip above ground level and was grouted in place. The 14 ¾” BHA was removed and 
replaced with a 9 5/8” BHA, the drilling operation continued to a depth of 54MBGL, 7” Casing was installed 
to 54mbgl and the 9 5/8” BHA Was replaced with a 6” BHA and drilled to a final depth of 171MBGL, an 
electrical conductivity test was carried out by a member of the Coal Authority, the results of which led to the 
realisation that we likely hit a pillar of unworked coal in the Hutton seam, however the tests did confirm that 
the High Main Seam connection was above expectations and a decision was then made to retain this borehole 
as the High Main Seam monitoring borehole . 
 
BH3 
The team using a 14 ¾” BHA drilled to a depth of 23.80MBGL the 10” permanent casing was installed in the 
BH, this left a 20cm lip above ground level and was grouted in place, The 14 ¾” BHA was removed and 
replaced with a 9 5/8” BHA, the drilling operation continued to a final depth of 134MBGL. Loss of flush and 
grouting operations not producing results with the added time and budgetary constraints led to the decision 
of changing the final install depth to 134MBGL, in the Brass Thill Seam rather than the Hutton Seam. 
 
7. INSTALLATION (JUNE-2023) 
BH2 
Casing 
Before the installation of the 4” casing in BH2 the team backfilled the BH to a Depth of 55.61MBGL With 
Gravel and Bentonite pellets to create a good seal. The team then assembled and moved the grout basket in 
place over the BH location. From there the team lowered the first section of the casing in place in the BH, 
the section was clamped before the end of the pipe towards the join and from there the team loosened the 
lifting head and moved towards the next section. The team connected the next section of the 4” casing and 
moved it into place over the grout basket section, the 4” casing was then connected and the joint taped to 
prevent grout from leaking into the casing during the later grouting stage. After the joint was taped a HD50 
Centraliser was then attached to the join, this process was then repeated till the 4” casing was installed to 
depth. Once the casing was installed to depth, the team introduced two bags of bentonite pellets down the 
anulus of the BH and casing, with the grout basket catching the bentonite pellets and ensuring a good seal. 
A small amount of grout was ran in, creating a good solid foundation ready for the remaining grout 
introduction which the team later introduced and completed. 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 14 of 17 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig. 8: Image taken of the installation of BH2 completed June-2023 
 
Chamber 
The installation of the chamber rings and completion of the chamber began with the team extending the trial 
pit outwards, giving the team room to get in and cut the casing down. The team completed the shuttering 
around the base of the chamber making sure that the pit was dug to 80cm deep and backfilling the outer 
edges of the trail pit with the removed debris from the pit extension measuring the top of the shuttering so 
that it was 60cm exact from G/L. 
 
Once the shuttering was done, the team mixed up concrete and poured it into the shuttering, smoothing the 
surface and measuring levels to maintain the 60cm from G/L to the top of the shuttering. From this point the 
team allowed the concrete to harden. Once the concrete had gone off the team marked out the 10” and 4” 
casing, cutting both to the correct depths before the team moved the chamber rings into position using a 
mortar mixture to fix the rings to the base of the concrete plinth, ensuring the chamber rings were level and 
the correct height from G/L. The exterior of the trial pit was then filled in with concrete to just below the top 
of the chamber rings. Once set off the team installed the chamber lid to the top of the chamber with mortar 
and concrete around the whole lid so that the top of the lid is flush to G/L. 
Fig. 9: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, completed in June-2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 15 of 17 
 
 
BH3 
Casing 
Before the installation of the 4” riser, the team prepped and installed the crossover thread from 4” bsp to 
the casing pipe thread. They then attached the first section of casing to the packer and moved the packer in 
place over the BH location with the aid of the drilling rig’s winch. The team then assembled the nitrogen 
bottle and airline hose, running the hose from the packer to the nitrogen bottle ready to inflate the device 
when final depth was reached. The join was then taped and a HD50 Centraliser attached to the Casing section 
above the join, the Coal Authority and Silixa then attached their cables to the 4” casing just above the join 
and top of the packer, with both cables on drums attached to trestles and fed over a roller being suspended 
by the telehandler. This allowed for a clean installation of both the cables, Drilcorp also attached the first 
grout pipe to the HD50 Centraliser. From there the team lowered the first section of the casing in place in 
the BH, the section was clamped before the end of the pipe towards the join and from there the team 
loosened the lifting head and moved towards the next section. The team connected the next section of the 
4” casing and moved it into place over the casing join, the 4” casing was then connected and the joint taped 
to prevent grout from leaking into the casing at a later stage. After the joint was taped a HD50 Centraliser 
was then attached to the join and the Fibre optic cable and piezo wire taped and secured to the 4” casing 
with the second grout pipe taped on at 85MBGL, this process was then repeated till the 4” casing was 
installed to depth. 
 
Cable depths: 
 
Tab. 3: Table of cable install depths 
Thermistor Depths 
Piezo Depths 
Fibre Optic Cable 
49.16mbgl 
11.56mbgl 
119.67mbgl 
119.67mbgl 
27.29mbgl 
79.70mbgl 
 
Once the casing was installed to depth, the team introduced grout into the casing annulus from 120MBGL to 
85MBGL, and then a special mixture of grout and bentonite with a ratio of (cement x 1, water x 2, bentonite 
x 0.36) was introduced from 85MBGL TO 10MBGL. The remaining 10m was topped up with normal grout. 
 
Fig. 10: Image acquired during the installation of the 4” casing and adjoining cables completed in June- 
2023 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 16 of 17 
 
 
Chamber 
The installation of the chamber rings and completion of the chamber began with the team extending the trial 
pit outwards, giving the team room to get in and cut the casing down, the team completed the shuttering 
around the base of the chamber making sure that the pit was dug to 80cm deep and backfilling the outer 
edges of the trail pit with the removed debris from the pit extension measuring the top of the shuttering so 
that it was 60cm exact from G/L. 
 
Once the shuttering was done the team mixed up concrete and poured it into the shuttering, smoothing the 
surface and measuring to maintain the 60cm from G/L to the top of the shuttering, from this point the team 
allowed the concrete to harden. Once the concrete had gone off, the team marked out the 10” and 4” casing, 
cutting both to the correct depths before the team moved the chamber rings into position using a mortar 
mixture to fix the rings to the base of the concrete plinth, ensuring the chamber rings are level and the correct 
height from G/L. The exterior of the trial pit was then filled in with concrete to just below the top of the 
chamber rings. Once set off the team installed the chamber lid to the top of the chamber with mortar and 
concrete around the whole lid so that the top of the lid is flush to G/L. 
 
Fig. 11: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, completed in June-2023 
 
8. RE-INSTATEMENT (JUNE-2023) 
 
Due to the small site footprint, the state of the ground and the plant being utilised on site, the condition of 
the ground had been compromised. The wet and rainy conditions throughout the project contributed 
towards the state of the ground on site, with the project moving into the warmer months, the condition of 
site improved to the point that a final re-instatement date could be planned and carried out. 
 
With the aid of a mini-digger and telehandler, the team cleaned the roadway, path and the field section, and 
smoothed and filled in any holes and uneven patches of ground. They used either the pre-existing ground or 
bags of gravel / ballast to achieve the ideal ground condition. The team used ballast to fill in the holes on the 
roadway whilst the soil was used to fill in the grass way. 

Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
Page 17 of 17 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig. 12: Images acquired after the re-instatement operations carried out in June-2023 
 
9. BH1: DECOMMISSIONING 
 
Along with the re-instatement works being carried out, the team decommissioned BH1, they excavated the 
trial pit, then proceeded to backfill and then grout the BH to the bottom of the trial pit (Fig. 3) reference. The 
team then cut the casing down to size. They then filled the excavated pit with concrete to G/L, creating a 
concrete cap, and sealing the BH from the public and re-instating the roadway for safe use. 
 
10. DEMOBILISATION 
 
With all operations complete on site, the team loaded all equipment and materials on either the vans or the 
waggons that arrived on site. All plant was off-hired and collected, and all materials brought back to Drilcorp’s 
base, the team completed a final walk round on site before signing out and leaving. 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A Hutton, BH4b-01 High Main, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Page 1 of 15 
 
 
 
DRILCORP 
REPORT 
 
BOREHOLE 
ENGINEERING 
SERVICES 
 
 
Contract: 
BC23025 
Client: 
Coal Authority 
Site: 
A4, Gateshead Living Lab 
Boreholes: 
BH4a-01A Stadium Hutton, BH4b-01 Stadium High Main 
Operations: 
1. BH4a-01A: Mobilisation 
2. BH4a-01A site set-up 
3. BH4a-01A Trial Pit 
4. BH4a-01A Drilling ops 
5. BH4a-01A Installation of 8” Dropset casing 
6. BH4a-01A Installation of 4” pipe 
7. BH4a-01A chamber installation 
8. BH4b-01 Mobilisation 
9. BH4b-01 Site-setup 
10. BH4b-01 Trial pit 
11. BH4b-01 Drilling ops 
12. BH4b-01 Installation of 8” casing 
13. BH4b-01 Installation of 4” pipe 
14. BH4b-01 Chamber installation 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Tab. 1: Document history 
Version 
Date 
Modification(s) to previous version 
Issued by 
1 
20-August-2024 
N/A 
J. M. Killeen 
2 
21-October-2024 More information required 
J.M. Killeen 
3 
15-November- 
2024 
More information required 
J.M. Killeen 
4 
29-April-2025 
Information Change  
J. M. Killeen 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A Hutton, BH4b-01 High Main, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Page 2 of 15 
 
 
 
Overview of operations at Site 4A, 
Gateshead living lab 
 
The following report has been prepared by Drilcorp for the Coal Authority. 
This report will cover the drilling operations carried out at site A4 of the Gateshead living lab project, 
this details how Drilcorp drilled and completed two monitoring Boreholes down to the abandoned mine 
workings below Gateshead. 
 
The two designations of the Boreholes are as follows: 
 
• 
BH4a-01A: Stadium - Hutton 
• 
BH4b-01: Stadium – High Main 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A Hutton, BH4b-01 High Main, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Page 3 of 15 
 
 
INDEX 
 
1. TABLE OF CONTENTS 
Index ............................................................................................................................................................. 3 
List of tables .................................................................................................................................................. 3 
List of figures ................................................................................................................................................. 4 
Borehole locations......................................................................................................................................... 5 
1. 
BH4a-01A Hutton Diagram ..................................................................................................................... 6 
2. 
BH4b-01 High Main Diagram .................................................................................................................. 7 
3. 
Sequence of operations ......................................................................................................................... 9 
4. 
pre-drilling ops .................................................................................................................................... 11 
5. 
Drilling ops ..........................................................................................................................................11 
6. 
Installation .......................................................................................................................................... 13 
LIST OF TABLES 
Tab. 1: Document history ............................................................................................................................... 2 
Tab. 2: Sequence of operations for drilling performed at BH4a-01A Hutton and BH4b-01 High Main ............... 8 
Tab. 3: Table of cable install depths .............................................................................................................13 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A Hutton, BH4b-01 High Main, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Page 4 of 15 
 
 
LIST OF FIGURES 
 
Fig. 1: Aerial view of site A4, Gateshead living labs, and locations of BH4a-01A Hutton and BH4b-01 High Main 
. ................................................................................................................................................................... 5 
 
Fig. 2: Diagram of BH4a-01A Hutton .............................................................................................................. 6 
Fig. 3: Diagram of BH4b-01 High Main ........................................................................................................... 7 
 
Fig. 4: Image taken of the site-setup ............................................................................................................. 9 
Fig. 5: Image taken of the mud treatment and shaker plant ..........................................................................10 
 
Fig. 6: Image taken of the installation of BH4a-01A Hutton ...........................................................................11 
Fig. 7: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos ......................................................................... 12 
 
Fig. 8: Image taken of the installation of BH4b-01 High Main ......................................................................... 13 
 
Fig. 9: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, ....................................................................... 14 

Page 5 of 17 
 
High Main 
Hutton 
Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A, BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
 
 
 
BOREHOLE LOCATIONS 
 
Fig. 1: Aerial view of site A4, Gateshead living labs, and locations of BH4a-01A Hutton and BH4b-01 High Main 
 
 
Grid reference: 
What 3 Words: 
• 
BH4a-01A (Stadium – Hutton): 
NZ 27129 62786 
///giving.boom.found 
• 
BH4b-01 (Stadium – High Main): 
NZ xx-xxxx-xxxx 
///puzzle.page.budget 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A, BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Fig. 2: Diagram of BH4a-01A Hutton 
Page 6 of 17 
 
 
1. BH4a-01A DIAGRAM 
 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A, BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024_Report 
Fig.3: Diagram of BH4b-01 Stadium High Main 
Page 7 of 17 
 
 
2. BH4b-01 DIAGRAM 
 

Page 8 of 17 
 
Site A5, Living-lab, BH1, BH2 (BH5b, and BH3 (BH5a), observation holes and decommissioning_June-2023_Report v4 
 
 
 
3. SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 
 
Tab. 2: Sequence of operations for drilling performed at BH4a-01A and BH4b-01 
Start 
End 
Borehole(s) 
Operation 
Performed by 
02/05/2024 
03/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Mobilisation 
Drilling division 
07/05/2024 
07/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Setup of site. Trial pit, rig setup 
08/05/2024 
08/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Drill to 25m at 14" 3/4 and prepare to run casing 
09/05/2024 
10/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Install 25m of 10" casing and grout annulus 
10/05/2024 
04/06/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Drill from 25m to 180m 
29/05/2024 
31/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Install 8" dropset for flush lost in workings then grout. 
04/06/2024 
05/05/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Flush BH clean and complete verticality test 
06/06/2024 
06/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Set up on BH4b-01 Trail pit, Rig Setup 
07/06/2024 
07/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Drill to 25m at 14" 3/4 and prepare to run casing 
10/06/2024 
11/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Install 25m of 10" casing and grout annulus 
11/06/2024 
17/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Drill from 25m to 70m 
18/06/2024 
18/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Flush BH clean and complete verticality test 
18/06/2024 
20/06/2024 
BH4b-01 
Install PVC liner, seal and first grout pass 
10/07/2024 
12/07/2024 
BH4b-01 
Complete chamber and top off grout 
21/06/2024 
21/06/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Set back up on BH4a-01A then flush b/h before install 
27/06/2024 
27/06/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Install 8" casing into BH4a-01A from G.L to 90.0m 
28/06/2024 
28/06/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Run rods into b/h and flush to base of b/h to 188.97m 
01/07/2024 
02/07/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Install PVC liner and instruments, inflate packer and check for seal 
03/07/2024 
05/07/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Run first grout pass into BH then run 2nd pass into b/h, 
10/07/2027 
11/07/2024 
BH4a-01A 
Complete chamber and top off grout 
09/07/2024 
12/07/2024 
BH4a-01A -BH4b-01 Demobilise 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 9 of 15 
 
 
4. PRE-DRILLING OPS 
 
Mobilisation 
 
Drilcorp arrived on site Monday the 02nd of May 2024, two wagons shortly arrived on site ready to be 
unloaded and the site setup ready for the planned operations. 
 
Site-setup 
 
The team employed good traffic control techniques while escorting wagons during peak and general hours, 
through the Stadium and college. Whilst keeping spatial awareness in mind, the plant and equipment 
delivered on site where then maneuvered into place ready for the next phase of the plan, within the agreed 
borders of site. 
 
Safety and informational signs were secured at appropriate sections of the fencing. Additional H&S (Health and 
Safety) documentation along with the Rams and job program were located in the welfare unit. 
 
Along with plant movement and equipment setup, the site was secured using Heras fencing. This enclosed 
the entirety of the site, with safety signs attached to the fencing at appropriate intervals. A site office was set 
up, which contained the health and safety and construction information. This information detailed the 
muster points and gas detection zones throughout site, as well as the induction point to access site. 
 
 
 
 
Fig. 4: Image taken of the site- setup 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 10 of 15 
 
 
GPR 
A GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) survey was conducted on the 01st Sep 2022 by an independent 
organization on behalf of Drilcorp. The GPR team carried out a full site survey, identifying any hidden and 
buried services throughout site, this includes: water, gas and electrical utilities. The survey revealed the 
surrounding utilities on site, with no utilities identified on or around the Drilling location. 
 
The GPR team mapped out and geo-tagged the BH drilling locations, marking them with both a crossed 
symbol and ID Number. With nothing found and the BH locations marked out, The High Main borehole 
location was moved away from its original surveyed location due to proximity to the fence line, and was 
brought more in line with the initial Hutton Borehole. 
 
Trial Pit 
 
BH locations marked out and the area free from buried services, the team marked out the trial pit, to the 
dimensions of 1.2mtrs X 1.2mtrs X 1.2mtrs. Using the aid of the CAT and Genny and insulated digging tools, 
the team excavated the trial pit, checking for any buried services not identified by the GPR Survey. The first 
Trial Pit found an obstruction, and so was then moved and carried out again to find no obstruction. As a 
result, drilling proceeded on High Main borehole. This process was then repeated for the second BH on site. 
 
Rig-Setup 
 
The rig was tracked over the pit and setup, jacking the rig up using hydraulic legs and using the built in spirit 
levels to calibrate the correct angle of the mast for drilling. 
The rig is jacked and levelled so that when drilling operations start, the drilling angle will remain true and 
minimise the chances of the rods going offline. With the rig jacked up and levelled, the full potential of the 
rig can be used and, in turn, its full pullback weight with the jacks distributing the weight of the rig evenly. 
 
Drilling flush 
The team mixed and weighed the correct amount of bentonite and Polymer to water ratio. The reason these 
substances were added to the flush is to aid in drilling operations and, throughout the job, flush can maintain 
the structural integrity of the borehole walls. This also allows for debris produced by the drilling process to 
clear the hole and rise to the surface to be collected in the trial pit. This is then transferred through the mud 
treatment system. Water for site was supplied via a hydrant on site. 
 
Fig. 5: Image taken of the mud treatment and shaker 
plant 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 11 of 15 
 
 
5. DRILLING OPERATIONS 
BH4a-01A- Stadium Hutton 
The team using a 14 ¾” BHA (Bottom Hole Assembly) drilled to a depth of 27MBGL (Metres Below Ground 
Level). The 10” permanent casing was installed in the BH and was grouted in place. The 14 ¾” BHA was 
removed and replaced with a 9 5/8” BHA, with the drilling operation continuing to a depth of 167.36MBGL. 
An 8” dropset casing was then installed from 152.36MBGL to 167.36MBGL and grouted in place. Drilling 
continued at 7 5/8” to a total depth of 188.97 mBGL. Following completion, the top section of the borehole 
was found to be collapsing, and was redrilled to 89.42 mBGL, before a permanent 8” casing string was 
installed, and hung off the 10” surface casing. 
BH4b-01- Stadium High Main  
The team using a 14 ¾” BHA drilled to a depth of 27MBGL. The 10” permanent casing was installed in the BH 
and grouted in place. The 14 ¾” BHA was removed and replaced with a 9 5/8” BHA, and the drilling operation 
continued to a depth of 82.08MBGL. 
 
 
6. INSTALLATION 
 
BH4b-01 Stadium High Main 
Casing 
 
The team assembled and moved the grout basket in place over the BH location. From there the team lowered 
the first section of the casing in place over the BH, which was clamped before the end of the join. From there 
the team loosened the lifting head and moved towards the next section. The team connected the next section 
of the 4” casing and moved it into place over the grout basket section. The 4” casing was then connected and 
the joint taped to prevent grout from leaking into the casing during the later grouting stage. After the joint 
was taped a HD50 Centraliser was then attached to the join, this process was then repeated till the 4” casing 
was installed to depth. Once the casing was installed to depth, the team introduced two bags of bentonite 
pellets down the annulus of the BH and casing, with the grout basket catching the bentonite pellets and 
ensuring a good seal. A small amount of grout was ran in, creating a good solid foundation ready for the 
remaining grout which the team later introduced and completed. 
 
 
Fig. 6: Image taken of the installation of BH4b-01 Stadium High Main 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 12 of 15 
 
 
Chamber 
 
Shuttering was built up around the casing allowing for grout to be poured to G/L and be leveled off. 
 
Once the shuttering was done, the team mixed up concrete and poured it into the trial pit surrounding the 
shuttering, smoothing the surface and measuring levels to maintain an even finish to G/L. From this point the 
team allowed the concrete to harden. Once the concrete had gone off the team marked out the 10” and 4” 
casing, cutting both to the correct depths, before the team moved the chamber rings into position using a 
mortar mixture to fix the rings to the base of the concrete plinth. They ensured the chamber rings were level 
and the correct height from G/L. Once set off the team installed the lid to the top of the chamber with mortar 
and concrete. This was installed around the whole lid so that the top of the lid is flush to the surface of the 
chamber. 
 
From there the team built up the exterior of the chamber using bricks to achieve a professional finish and to 
secure the chamber. 
 
 
Fig. 7: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 13 of 15 
 
 
BH4a-01A Stadium Hutton 
 
 
Casing 
 
Before the installation of the 4” riser, the team prepped and installed the crossover thread from 4” bsp to 
the casing pipe thread. They then attached the first section of casing to the packer and moved the packer in 
place over the BH location with the aid of the drilling rig’s winch. The team then assembled the nitrogen 
bottle and airline hose, running the hose from the packer to the nitrogen bottle ready to inflate the device 
when final depth was reached. The join was then taped and asetof HD30 centraliserswereattached above the join. 
Drilcorp also attached the first grout pipe to the HD30 Centraliser. Lengths of casing were added and the 
process of taping and adding a centralizer were repeated, until the 160 mBGL mark on the casing. The Coal 
Authority and Silixa then attached their cables to the 4” casing from the 160 mBGL mark, with both cables 
on drums attached to trestles and fed over a roller being suspended by the telehandler. This allowed for a 
clean installation of both the cables. From there the team lowered the casing in place in the BH, the section 
was clamped before the end of the pipe towards the join and from there the team loosened the lifting head 
and moved towards the next section. The team connected the next section of the 4” casing and moved it into 
place over the casing join. The 4” casing was then connected and the joint taped to prevent grout from leaking 
into the casing at a later stage. After the joint was taped a HD30 Centraliser was then attached to the join 
and the Fibre optic cable and piezo wire were taped and secured to the 4” casing with the second grout pipe 
attached. This process was then repeated till the 4” casing was installed to depth. Towards the top of the 
casing install, HD50 centralizers were used with two fins removed in order to fit inside the 8" steel casing. 
 
 
Cable depths: 
 
Tab. 3: Table of cable install depths 
Thermistor Depths 
Piezo Depths 
Fibre Optic Cable 
47.86mbgl 
10.27mbgl 
160mbgl 
120.45mbgl 
30.28mbgl 
160mbgl 
80.22mbgl 
 
Once the casing was installed to depth, the team introduced grout into the casing annulus from 160MBGL to 
95MBGL, and then grout was introduced from 95MBGL TO 10MBGL. The remaining 10m was topped up with 
normal grout. 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 14 of 15 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig. 8: Image taken of the installation of BH4b-01 Stadium Hutton 
 
 
Chamber 
 
Shuttering was built up around the casing allowing for grout to be poured to G/L and be leveled off. 
 
Once the shuttering was done, the team mixed up concrete and poured it into the trial pit surrounding the 
shuttering, smoothing the surface and measuring levels to maintain an even finish to G/L. From this point the 
team allowed the concrete to harden. Once the concrete had gone off the team marked out the 10” and 4” 
casing, cutting both to the correct depths before the team moved the chamber rings into position using a 
mortar mixture to fix the rings to the base of the concrete plinth. This ensured the chamber rings were level 
and the correct height from G/L. Once set off the team installed the lid to the top of the chamber with mortar 
and concrete. This was installed around the whole lid so that the top of the lid is flush to the surface of the 
chamber. 
 
From there the team built up the exterior of the chamber using bricks to achieve a professional finish and to 
secure the chamber. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig.9: Image taken of the chamber before and after photos, 

Site A4, Living-lab, BH4a-01A and BH4b-01, observation holes_August-2024 
Page 15 of 15 
 
 
 
This is intentionally left blank. 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Appendix B: VWP calibration file - Bede 
 
Site 
Bede 
BH ID 
Bede – BT  
Target 
Brass Thill 
Zero Baro (kPa) 
103.2 
Zero Temp (°C) 
11 
 
VW P – BedeBT_11.56m 
SN 
361271 
Install depth 
11.56m 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9302.4 
9302.4 
9302.4 
A constant 
-4.23E-07 
-7.70E-08 
-4.31E-08 
B constant 
-9.09E-02 
-1.35E-02 
-9.27E-03 
C constant 
881.95 
131.98 
89.93 
Thermal 
2.18E-01 
4.07E-02 
2.22E-02 
Linear (K) 
-9.73E-02 
1.41E-02 
-9.92E-03 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
VW P – BedeBT_27.29m 
SN 
334698 
Install depth 
27.29m 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9304.8 
9304.8 
9304.8 
A constant 
-6.44E-07 
-9.35E-08 
-6.57E-08 
B constant 
-1.09E-01 
-1.59E-02 
-1.12E-02 
C constant 
1074.01 
155.77 
109.52 
Thermal 
-2.52E-02 
-3.66E-03 
-2.57E-03 
Linear (K) 
-1.19E-01 
-1.72E-02 
-1.21E-02 
 
VW P – BedeBT_79.7m 
SN 
361418 
Install depth 
79.7m 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9645 
9645 
9645 
A constant 
-1.79E-06 
-2.59E-07 
-1.82E-07 
B constant 
-3.18E-01 
-4.61E-02 
-3.24E-02 
C constant 
3230.94 
468.59 
329.47 
Thermal 
5.78E-01 
8.38E-02 
5.89E-02 
Linear (K) 
-3.47E-01 
-5.03E-02 
-3.54E-02 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
Appendix C: VWP calibration file - Stadium 
 
Site 
Stadium 
BH ID 
Stadium – H  
Target 
Hutton 
Zero Baro 
(kPa) 
101.2 
Zero Temp (°C) 
17 
 
VW P_10.27m 
SN 
361273 
Install depth 
10.27 mBGL 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9066.9 
9066.9 
9066.9 
A constant 
-6.06E-07 
-8.78E-08 
-6.72E-08 
B constant 
-9.57E-02 
-1.39E-02 
-9.76E-03 
C constant 
917.58 
133.08 
94.01 
Thermal 
2.34E-01 
3.39E-02 
2.39E-02 
Linear (K) 
-1.05E-01 
-1.52E-02 
-1.05E-01 
 
 
 

 
© The Mining Remediation Authority 2025.  All rights reserved    
User Guide – Gateshead Living Lab Dataset Version 2.0 
 
 
 
 
 
VW P_30.28 
SN 
334659 
Install depth 
30.28 mBGL 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9390.1 
9390.1 
9390.1 
A constant 
-6.54E-07 
-9.49E-08 
-6.67E-08 
B constant 
-1.81E-01 
-1.58E-02 
-1.11E-02 
C constant 
1756.17 
156.55 
110.07 
Thermal 
2.36E-01 
3.42E-02 
2.40E-02 
Linear (K) 
-1.18E-01 
-1.71E-02 
-1.21E-02 
 
VW P_80.22m 
SN 
361419 
Install depth 
80.22 mBGL 
 
kPa per digit 
PSI per digit 
mH2O per digit 
Avg. Site Zero 
9802.9 
9802.9 
9802.9 
A constant 
-1.03E-06 
-1.50E-07 
-1.05E-07 
B constant 
-2.73E-01 
3.96E-02 
-2.78E-02 
C constant 
2775.26 
-373.74 
283.00 
Thermal 
4.58E-01 
6.64E-02 
4.67E-02 
Linear (K) 
-2.90E-01 
-4.20E-02 
-2.95E-02