Precision in Tough Ground: Securing New Water Connection for LCR School
Project Overview
Mole Group was appointed to deliver a new water connection for a school in the Liverpool City Region. The project required a trenchless Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) solution to install underground services safely and efficiently within a live educational environment.
The works were scheduled during a narrow window to ensure the school could open on time, placing significant pressure on programme delivery.
The Challenge
This project presented several key challenges:
Extremely tough ground conditions that increased drilling resistance and required precise planning and specialist tooling.
Strict time constraints, with completion required before staff and pupils returned.
Sensitive environment, working within a school site where safety and cleanliness were paramount.
Zero tolerance for overrun, as delays would have directly impacted school reopening.
Ground investigation revealed difficult drilling conditions, demanding careful fluid management, controlled bore paths, and experienced operators to maintain accuracy and productivity.
Our Approach
Mole Group implemented a proactive and solutions-focused strategy:
1. Technical Expertise
Our experienced HDD team adapted drilling techniques to suit the tough ground conditions, selecting appropriate tooling and optimising drilling parameters to maintain progress without compromising accuracy.
2. Extended Working Hours
To protect the programme, our team worked into the evenings and across the weekend. This ensured the installation remained on schedule despite ground challenges.
3. Safety & Site Management
Operating in a live school environment required exceptional site control. We maintained:
Strict exclusion zones
Continuous housekeeping
Clean and organised working areas
Clear communication with stakeholders
Our goal was not only to complete the installation but to leave the site fully compliant, safe, and ready for immediate use.
The Result
Despite difficult ground and limited time, Mole Group successfully:
Completed the HDD installation within the required timeframe
Delivered a reliable new water connection for the school
Restored the site to a high standard
Ensured the area was safe and tidy for staff and pupils
The school opened on schedule with improved infrastructure and no disruption to students or teaching staff.
Key Outcomes
✔ Project delivered on time under challenging conditions
✔ Safe and clean site handover
✔ Enhanced water supply reliability
✔ Zero delays to school reopening
Conclusion
This project demonstrates Mole Group’s commitment to delivering under pressure. Through technical expertise, flexible working, and a strong focus on safety and quality, we ensured a successful outcome in a demanding environment.
Mole Group continues to support infrastructure projects across the Liverpool City Region, providing specialist HDD solutions where precision, safety, and reliability matter most.