Old Oak Common Deep Drainage / HS2 Enabling
Client: COLAS
Location: Old Oak Common, London
Overview
PACE Infrastructure Solutions Ltd was engaged to deliver emergency design and build bank stabilisation and major drainage works for a critical infrastructure project at Old Oak Common. This scope followed the identification of significant risks during HV upgrade works, requiring rapid mobilisation and expert execution. The drainage works formed part of enabling activities for future development, ensuring integration with Thames Water infrastructure and surrounding assets.
Our Scope
PACE deployed its Specialist Ancillary Civils Support services and a fully customised labour package to deliver both East and West drainage systems. Key elements included:
East Drainage Scheme
- 380 linear metres of drainage
- Average depth: 4.3 metres
- Installation of 18 chambers
- Excavation of 3,600 tonnes of spoil
- Backfilling with 600 tonnes of shingle and 2,075 tonnes of Type 1
West Drainage Scheme
- 450 linear metres of drainage
- Average depth: 4.0 metres
- Installation of 16 chambers
- Excavation of 3,960 tonnes of spoil
- Backfilling with 715 tonnes of shingle and 2,460 tonnes of Type 1
- The works demanded precision planning and close coordination with Thames Water and other interfacing contractors.
Technical Approach
PACE ensured successful delivery through a self-delivery model and a technically driven methodology:
- Customised Labour Supply: Full labour package including plant operators, construction CREs, supervisors, and site management
- Self-Delivery Model: Ensured consistent quality, safe working practices, and accelerated programme delivery
- Live Interface Management: Coordinated with Thames Water and other stakeholders to mitigate service clashes and maintain progress
- Specialist Drainage Delivery: Complex excavation and backfilling under live and constrained site conditions
Outcome
PACE completed the works efficiently and safely under challenging ground and logistical conditions. Project outcomes included:
- Seamless integration with critical HV and water infrastructure
- Successful self-delivery of deep drainage schemes across two locations
- Rapid mobilisation and execution aligned with client schedules
- Positive client feedback on performance, adaptability, and delivery control
- This project demonstrated PACE’s capability in delivering technically demanding drainage and civils works through specialist teams, strong site leadership, and a commitment to delivery excellence.
