Victorian brick sewer connection

Project Overview

Premier Drainage Solutions was instructed to deliver a 100mm lateral connection into a Victorian brick-built sewer (1140mm x 790mm) at a depth of 2.5m, working within just one lane of a live carriageway. With an extremely tight lead time between instruction and mobilisation, the team successfully delivered the project on time — securing permits, managing confined-space access, and completing the work to Thames Water standards.

Scope of Works

• Dig-and-Push Excavation Method

  A two-level aluminium trench box system with hydraulic bracing was installed to safely support the excavation, allowing us to work efficiently within the tight working footprint of a single lane.

• Core-Drilled Saddle Connection

  We carefully core-drilled into the existing brickwork of the Victorian sewer and installed a pre-formed saddle, securely fixed using Sika sand and cement to ensure long-term durability.

• Traffic and Licence Management

  A single-lane closure was coordinated and maintained at all times, with suspended parking bays nearby to support materials storage and waste management. The speed at which the team were able to secure permits and coordinate logistics was crucial to meeting the client’s timeline.

• Reinstatement
  

  Final reinstatement was carried out using MOT Type 1 compacted in layers. Correct compaction techniques using petrol trench rammers were applied to meet future inspection requirements and avoid settlement issues.

Project Highlights

• Victorian brick main connection made to exacting Thames Water standards
• All works completed under live traffic conditions with minimal disruption
• Permits, logistics and delivery managed seamlessly by PDS team
• Full reinstatement carried out to highways specification