One of our recent projects took us to Moors Valley Railway Station, where a drainage issue threatened to delay an important re-roofing project. Before any construction work could begin, we were called in to carry out a detailed drain mapping project to assess and resolve the problem.
The Challenge: Uncovering Hidden Drainage Issues
Moors Valley Railway is a much-loved attraction, welcoming visitors of all ages for scenic train rides through the beautiful country park. However, behind the scenes, the railway station faced a critical issue: the drainage system was outdated and unclear, making it difficult to determine where rainwater was flowing. Before re-roofing work could start, it was essential to map the drainage infrastructure to prevent potential complications.
Complicating matters further, the station building had originally been a cattle shed. Over the years, various modifications have been made, but many of these changes were undocumented. This meant that existing drainage plans were unreliable, and a full investigation was needed to locate underground pipework and assess its condition.
How Maintain Drains Tackled the Problem
Understanding the importance of the project, our team acted swiftly to conduct a thorough drain mapping survey. This process involved advanced techniques to identify drainage routes, pinpoint problem areas, and develop a long-term solution.
Here’s what our team did to get the drainage system back on track:
Step 1: Comprehensive Drain Mapping
Our first priority was to gain a clear understanding of the existing drainage layout. Using specialist equipment, including CCTV drain cameras, we inspected the underground pipes to determine where rainwater was flowing and to identify any blockages, damage, or structural issues.
Step 2: Excavation and Blockage Removal
Once the problem areas were identified, we excavated and cleared blocked drainage channels to restore proper water flow. Blocked or collapsed pipes can cause flooding and long-term damage, so this step was essential to ensuring the railway’s drainage system could function efficiently.
Step 3: Installing New Drainage Pipes
Some sections of the drainage system were no longer fit for purpose. To improve water management, we installed new drainage pipes, ensuring they were correctly positioned to handle rainwater runoff effectively. This upgrade was crucial in preventing future water buildup and ensuring a smooth re-roofing process.
Step 4: Connecting to the Existing Infrastructure
With an old site like this, making sure new pipework integrates seamlessly with the existing drainage system is key. We carefully connected the newly installed pipes to the current network, verifying that water would flow away efficiently and not cause further complications down the line.
Step 5: Final System Checks
Before completing the project, we conducted a series of final checks to confirm that the drainage system was fully operational. Our team tested the new installations to ensure that water flowed freely through the pipes and that all connections were secure.
The Outcome: A Fully Functional Drainage System
Thanks to our expert drain mapping and drainage repairs, Moors Valley Railway Station now has a reliable and efficient drainage system. With the blockages removed, new pipes installed, and proper connections ensured, the railway can move forward with its planned re-roofing project without any concerns about water-related issues.
Beyond just solving an immediate problem, our work has helped prevent future drainage issues. Proper water management reduces the risk of flooding and structural damage, keeping the railway station safe and operational for years to come.
Customer Feedback: A Job Well Done
The team at Moors Valley Railway was highly satisfied with the results. They appreciated our quick response, professional execution, and commitment to delivering a long-term solution. Knowing that their drainage system is now in top condition has given them peace of mind as they proceed with their station upgrades.
Why Drain Mapping in Dorset is Essential for Any Project
This project highlights the importance of drain mapping before starting construction or renovation work. Whether it’s a railway station, commercial property, or residential development, understanding the existing drainage system is crucial to avoiding costly issues further down the line.
At Maintain Drains, we specialise in providing detailed drain mapping services across Dorset, helping businesses and homeowners make informed decisions about their drainage systems.
Need Drainage Support? We’re Here to Help!
If you’re planning a construction project and need expert drain mapping in Dorset, our team at Maintain Drains is ready to assist. We offer professional drainage solutions tailored to your needs, from drain unblocking and repairs to CCTV surveys and emergency callouts.
For more details on this project, watch our video: