Investigations: Medieval Quarter, Manchester
The LK Group was commissioned by Manchester City Council, Civic Engineers and Galliford Try to undertake an investigation to identify type and location of services to the front of Manchester Cathedral, to facilitate future redevelopment of the site. Areas investigated comprised footpaths, highway and soft landscaping.
KEY FACTS
Who
Manchester City Council
What
£50,000 Combined Investigation to further develop the site
Where
Victoria Street, fronting Manchester Cathedral
How long
4 weeks from breaking ground to issuing report
Outcome
Provided detailed information to facilitate the development
THE SOLUTION
We carried out the works with specialist vacuum excavation techniques to safely excavate around services. All investigations were undertaken in sections, to ensure that Victoria Street was maintained for pedestrian access and service delivery vehicles. We consulted with stakeholders, including Manchester Cathedral and Manchester City Council, coordinating our works with Cathedral events. All locations were fenced off to prevent pedestrian entry and on completion all trenches were backfilled or covered using road plates. An archaeological working brief was maintained throughout due to the potential presence of historic artefacts.
THE BENEFIT
Our investigation was completed on time and within budget, causing minimal disruption to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in this bustling part of the city. On completion of the works, The LK Group reinstated the highway tarmac and Yorkshire flagstones to a very high standard.