About the Project
Following a period of extreme weather, the river adjacent to the Ernest Doe site rose rapidly before receding just as quickly. This sudden movement caused significant ground instability, resulting in subsidence and damage to office areas on site.
To stabilise the riverbank and protect the premises, a third-party contractor installed sheet piling, using ten-metre-long piling sheets to secure the affected area. However, the subsidence had already caused the existing septic tank to collapse, leading to pollution concerns that required immediate resolution.
Challenges and objectives
This project involved a combination of urgent environmental risks and complex site constraints that needed to be addressed quickly and carefully. Ground movement had caused the existing septic tank to collapse, creating an immediate pollution risk to the nearby watercourse. At the same time, recent structural stabilisation works meant that all activity on site had to be carried out safely and in coordination with other contractors.
A rapid response was essential to meet environmental compliance requirements while minimising disruption to ongoing business operations and keeping the solution within the client’s budget.
The objectives were therefore to eliminate pollution risks without delay, design and install a fully compliant wastewater treatment solution, protect the adjacent watercourse, reinstate foul drainage connections, and improve site functionality where possible. All works needed to be completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal impact on day-to-day operations.
Results
Owls Hall Environmental responded to the call the same day. A bespoke solution was designed and developed that addressed both construction constraints and environmental requirements.
The Owls Hall team worked closely with Ernest Doe engineers on site to ensure a coordinated and effective approach. This included supporting the establishment of a wash-down screen to help the site maintain compliance and protect the adjacent watercourse.
A new 16-person sewage treatment plant was installed, with foul drainage reconnected and the failed system safely removed and disposed of. The redesign also enabled the creation of additional parking space, adding further value to the project beyond the core wastewater solution.
All works were carried out safely, with careful planning around existing piling structures and ground conditions.
A Long-Standing Relationship
This project was particularly meaningful due to the long-standing relationship between Owls Hall and Ernest Doe & Sons. Owls Hall tractors have historically been supplied by Ernest Doe, including the most recent New Holland tractor. There is also a personal connection dating back to the 1950s, when family members worked together at the Braintree branch.
Being able to support Ernest Doe during a challenging situation was both professionally and personally rewarding.
Client Statement
We recently had OWLS Hall complete a significant drainage and site-improvement project at our Marlesford branch, and I can confidently say they delivered an outstanding service from start to finish. The team were fantastic—arriving on time, working efficiently, and completing every aspect of the job exactly as requested. They were respectful of the business throughout and left the entire area clean and tidy, which was greatly appreciated.
A special mention goes to Craig Finbow, whose communication was exceptional. His regular updates, supported by clear photo evidence, were invaluable—especially as I am not based near the site. Knowing the project was progressing smoothly and professionally without needing to be physically present made the entire process stress-free.
The quality of workmanship throughout was excellent, and their thoughtful approach ensured long-term durability while helping us maximise yard space and reduce unnecessary costs.
I would highly recommend OWLS Hall to anyone seeking reliable, professional, and highly competent contractors. Their attention to detail, clear communication, and respect for the site set them apart. We couldn’t be happier with the results.
Thank you again for you and your team’s hard work!!
David English – Group Property Manager
