Chapter 9: Road drainage and the water environment

Memorandum
(Continued)
Page 6 of 6
Geological and hydrogeological data is limited across this site, especially in the area of the proposed
Swinford Road cutting. An additional ground investigation is due to commence on site in August 2009, it is
recommended that a Hydrogeologist has input into the design of the ground investigation and is consulted
during site works. The investigations should include pump testing to enable an accurate estimate both of
the rate of inflow into the cuttings and also the likely impacts on the local water table and potential for
impacts on local water users and ecologically sensitive sites (if any).
The volume of groundwater seepage from the 1:3.5 cut slopes upon completion of the scheme is
predicted to be relatively low. Nonetheless, it is recommended that groundwater seepage will need to be
taken into account during drainage design.
The interception and permanent lowering of the water table around the Swinford Road cutting and A14-
M6 Link may impact upon adjacent farmland and ecologically sensitive receptors (if any), and on local
private or public water supplies. It may also increase the risk of providing a pollutant pathway from a
nearby landfill to controlled waters. It is recommended that further hydrological and hydrogeological
assessment be undertaken to determine the risk to local water supplies and controlled waters.
Jacobs Engineering U.K. Limited
Jacobs_MemoA4.doc