2018
Bearsden, Glasgow
Balfour Beatty
Balfour Beatty
Woolgar Hunter
Terramesh® Retaining Wall Solution for Housing Development in Bearsden, Glasgow
The site with the retaining wall at the edge
Houses being built to the right
Terramesh® System
Challenge
Glasgow is experiencing significant growth in new housing developments, with increased demand for high-quality residential construction in desirable suburban areas such as Bearsden. On Birnam Crescent, Cala Homes commenced a development of 20 new homes; however, the site presented challenging ground conditions that required careful engineering intervention. The terrain was uneven and unsuitable for immediate construction, making ground stabilisation and reinforcement essential before any building work could proceed.
The success of the project depended heavily on effective earthworks and the implementation of a robust retaining solution. Without proper stabilisation, the integrity of the development and the safety of future homeowners could be compromised. Therefore, a long-lasting, sustainable, and structurally reliable retaining system was required to support the site and enable construction to move forward.
Solution
Maccaferri Construction was appointed by Ground Developments Ltd (GDL) to design, supply, and install a high-performance retaining wall solution tailored to the site’s specific requirements. The chosen solution was the Terramesh® System, a proven mechanically stabilised earth (MSE) system known for its strength, durability, and environmental benefits.
With a design life of 120 years and backed by BBA certification, the Terramesh® System provided a sustainable and compliant solution for long-term ground stabilisation. The retaining wall measured 148 metres in length, with variable heights ranging from 2 metres to 5 metres to accommodate the site’s natural gradients.
A key advantage of the system was the use of locally sourced stone as fill material. This approach significantly reduced transportation requirements, lowering the overall carbon footprint of the project while supporting environmentally responsible construction practices. The modular installation process involved placing each Terramesh® unit layer-by-layer onto the completed section below, ensuring structural integrity and efficient construction.
In addition to its engineering performance, the finished retaining wall delivered strong aesthetic value. The natural stone facing allowed the structure to blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment, enhancing the visual appeal of the development while maintaining functionality.
This project demonstrates how Maccaferri’s retaining wall solutions can successfully address complex ground conditions in residential developments, providing a durable, sustainable, and visually appealing outcome for modern housing projects in Glasgow.
Used Products
