TPA supplied over 1,000 temporary roadway panels to support a geotechnical contractor carrying out ground investigation works for HS2. The project required a bespoke access solution in a sensitive location, enabling borehole drilling and testing to provide vital data for the design of bridges, tunnels, cuttings, and four new stations along the 140-mile route.
A sensitive installation site
The access route passed through a golf club, where installation had to take place with minimal disruption to members. Environmental, ecological and neighbourhood considerations also made careful planning essential.
The project ran until early 2018, with TPA completing installation over two weeks. In total, 1,065 temporary roadway panels were installed across two main areas: the driving range and the golf course itself.
Driving range access
To provide access across the golf driving range, 151 heavy-duty aluminium panels were installed over four days. Tight access meant TPA operatives used a telehandler from sister company UK Forks. Work was carefully scheduled within a 3-hour window each day before the range opened to the public, minimising disruption for members.
Golf course installation
Across the main course, 914 aluminium panels were laid using TPA’s specialist HIAB vehicles. Safety was a key consideration: PVC matting was fitted along panel edges to deflect golf balls safely away from players.
At four stream crossings, Vp plc’s Groundforce Bridge division installed temporary bridges, allowing traffic to move freely across the course without environmental damage.
Innovative MaxiTrack system
As part of the works, TPA also installed the MaxiTrack system. These are lightweight 40kg mats that can be handled by two workers without lifting equipment. Despite their portability, MaxiTrack panels can support loads of up to 130 tonnes. When kept joined in fours, they can be craned into position as 3.6 x 1.8 metre mats, providing a fast, flexible access solution.
Temporary roadway hire that adapts to every site
By combining heavy-duty aluminium panels, PVC safety matting, MaxiTrack mats, and temporary bridges, TPA delivered a bespoke solution tailored to the unique constraints of the golf club site. Careful scheduling, collaboration with sister companies, and a focus on safety ensured the works were completed smoothly with minimal impact on the environment and local community.
For HS2’s ground investigation phase, TPA’s ability to adapt its temporary roadway hire solutions to sensitive, high-profile projects proved critical in keeping essential survey works moving.