Ground Investigation Teams Move Into Woodlands School Field as Questions Grow Over Future Plans

Parents have been contacting Formby Bubble after noticing a large number of contractors, vans, skips and specialist equipment on the field at Woodlands Primary School in Formby during the summer holidays.

After visiting the site today, Formby Bubble spoke with workers carrying out the investigations. They explained that they are undertaking geotechnical ground investigations, including soil testing, to assess the condition of the ground and gather information about what the land may be suitable for in the future.

The large green machine on site appears to be a dynamic sampling and window sampling rig, a specialist piece of geotechnical equipment used to recover soil samples from beneath the surface.

The rig drives hollow sampling tubes into the ground, allowing engineers to examine the different layers of soil, measure their strength and determine the ground conditions.

These investigations are commonly carried out before any future building, extension or engineering project is considered, although they can also form part of routine site assessments.

The works are also believed to include ground probing and testing to establish the make up and stability of the soil, with samples typically sent for laboratory analysis where required. The information helps engineers determine whether the ground is suitable for potential future uses and what type of foundations or construction methods may be needed if development is ever proposed.

A number of specialist contractors are currently on site, including geotechnical consultants and ground investigation teams, along with welfare facilities and site equipment.

Although contractors confirmed they are carrying out geotechnical investigations, it is not currently known why the surveys have been commissioned or whether they relate to any future proposals for the school site.

Formby Bubble has contacted Woodlands Primary School requesting an official statement asking:

• What works are being carried out

• Who commissioned the investigations

• Whether they are routine surveys or connected to future plans for the site

• Whether parents will be informed of the purpose of the investigations

As the school is currently closed for the summer holidays, we have not yet received a response. We will update readers as soon as the school provides further information.

If you have noticed the work taking place or have any information you would like to share, please let us know in the comments or send us a message.