2005
HALIFAX - WEST YORKSHIRE - United Kingdom
Hewlett Civil Engineering
HBC Construction Ltd
MJMC Group
Retaining Wall Solution for Thrum Hall Asda Development
ASDA STORE
Post construction of MSE Wall
Challenge
The historic Thrum Hall site, covering 55,000 square yards, had been a key venue for Rugby League, County Cricket, and outdoor bowling since 1886. Originally purchased for £3,000, the site was sold in 1998 to the Wal-Mart Group for £2.2 million to make way for a new Asda supermarket development. The funds from the sale were allocated to support the redevelopment of The Shay Stadium for Halifax Rugby League Football Club.
As part of the supermarket construction, extensive ground re-contouring was required to accommodate the new layout, including car parks, access roads, and pedestrian routes. In early 2003, consulting engineers MJMC Group engaged Maccaferri to design and deliver a retaining wall solution capable of addressing significant changes in ground levels across the site.
The key challenge was to develop a retaining wall system that combined structural strength, flexibility, and durability while also delivering an aesthetically pleasing finish suitable for a high-profile retail environment. The system also needed to support heavy loads, including vehicle traffic and surcharge loads from car parking areas, while integrating safely with features such as crash barriers and pedestrian ramps.
Solution
Maccaferri provided a tailored retaining wall solution using the MacWall Diamond segmental block system, chosen for its fast installation, flexibility, and architectural finish. Working closely with MJMC Group, Maccaferri delivered a fully engineered and professionally indemnified design and supply package to meet the project’s technical and commercial requirements.
The MacWall Diamond retaining wall system offered a robust and durable solution capable of supporting surcharge loads of up to 10 kN/m², making it ideal for car park applications and infrastructure support. Its dry-build construction method enabled rapid installation, reducing construction time and site disruption. The system’s flexibility allowed it to adapt seamlessly to the complex ground-level changes across the development.
Each concrete block features an integrated rear lip locator, ensuring accurate alignment and secure interlocking without the need for mortar. This not only improves construction efficiency but also enhances long-term stability and performance.
The finished retaining walls delivered both structural reliability and a high-quality visual appearance, making them well-suited to the modern Asda supermarket environment. The solution successfully transformed the former sports ground into a functional, safe, and visually appealing retail development while overcoming significant geotechnical challenges.
Used Products
