Groundworks in Crawley
We are your local experts for the New Town. From Maidenbower extensions to Manor Royal industrial works, we deliver compliant foundations and drainage with zero travel costs.
Engineered for the Clay
Crawley's "New Town" expansion sits almost entirely on heavy Weald Clay. This shrinkable soil causes headaches for standard foundations, but our engineered solutions ensure stability for properties in Ifield, Pound Hill, and beyond.
The New Town Challenge
Crawley's rapid expansion in the 1950s/60s means many older properties rely on shallow foundations in Weald Clay that are now failing. Modern extensions in areas like Furnace Green require a different approach to avoid differential settlement.
Additionally, the soil in Crawley often contains natural sulfates (gypsum), which can attack standard concrete. We use specific Design Chemical Class (DC-2/3) concrete mixtures to prevent foundation degradation over time.
We test the soil pH and sulfate levels on every Crawley site. Using the correct sulfate-resisting cement is vital for the longevity of your foundations.
For extensions near trees (common in the wooded neighborhoods of Tilgate), we use deep piling with compressible void formers to absorb clay movement.
Gatwick Stream & Run-off
With the Upper River Mole and Gatwick Stream running through the town, plus the vast hardstanding of the airport nearby, flash flooding is a risk. We specialize in robust surface water management systems.
Attenuation Systems
Since clay soils don't soak away, we install underground storage crates (attenuation tanks) to hold storm water and release it slowly into the sewer network.
Permeable Driveways
We install SUDS-compliant driveways in Maidenbower and Pound Hill, allowing water to filter through the sub-base, preventing street flooding.
Industrial Drainage
For Manor Royal clients, we install heavy-duty interceptors (separators) to prevent oil and pollutants from entering the water course.
Planning Resources
Crawley Planning
Check planning applications and building control regulations for the borough.
Visit Portal →Flood Map
Check the risk levels for the Gatwick Stream and River Mole in your neighborhood.
Check Postcode →Thames Water
Thames Water manages the wastewater/sewers in Crawley. Apply for build-over agreements here.
Developer Services →