2005
Haslingden, Lancashire
Tesco Ltd
Dudley Construction Ltd
Pinnacle Consulting Engineers Ltd
Retaining Wall Solution for Split-Level Supermarket Car Park
View of MacWall and the entrance of the newly built Tesco store
MacWall vertica is versatile
Post construction of MacWall
Challenge
Pinnacle Consulting Engineers Ltd approached Maccaferri for expert support in the design and supply of a retaining wall system for a split-level supermarket car park. The project required a 130-metre-long retaining structure to retain the upper parking area while supporting a vehicle access ramp between two levels.
Key project requirements included structural stability, rapid construction, and a high-quality aesthetic finish that would complement the surrounding supermarket architecture. With space constraints and functional demands, the solution needed to maximise usable land while maintaining safety and durability.
Solution
Maccaferri delivered an efficient and visually appealing solution using the MacWall segmental retaining wall system, combining engineering performance with architectural flexibility. The system integrates split-face concrete blocks with Paragrid™ geogrids, creating a reinforced soil structure capable of long-term load retention.
The 3-metre-high retaining wall at Haslingden was reinforced using multiple layers of Paragrid™ 80/15S polyester geogrids, ensuring structural integrity and performance under load. The MacWall blocks were manufactured in a sandstone colour, carefully selected to match the existing masonry on site and enhance the overall visual consistency of the development.
A major advantage of the MacWall system is its dry-build, mortarless construction, allowing for rapid installation and reduced labour time. The integrated locator lug and cam mechanism ensures accurate alignment and ease of assembly, making it an ideal solution for time-sensitive commercial projects. Installation was successfully completed by William Ogilvie of Rawtenstall, working under subcontract to Allan Plant & Civil Engineering Ltd.
The system provided a near-vertical 70-degree wall face, maximising land use behind the structure while minimising the footprint in front, critical in a confined car park environment. The split-face concrete finish delivers a premium appearance and is available in a variety of colours to suit different project aesthetics. A capping block detail, secured with epoxy adhesive, completed the structure with a clean and durable finish.
In addition to the retaining wall design, Maccaferri collaborated with Dudley Construction and Pinnacle Consulting Engineers Ltd to develop a vehicle crash barrier solution for the upper level. This ensured the MacWall system could safely support barrier loads, providing a fully integrated and compliant infrastructure solution.
Used Products
