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Blenheim Dam, Oxfordshire

Supervising engineering services for the restoration and upgrade of two dams

  • Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

    Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Saving the estate money whilst reducing carbon emissions

Since 2004, we have undertaken a variety of inspection and remedial works to ensure the continued safety of the Blenheim dams, located within the Blenheim Palace UNESCO World Heritage Site in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. Both the Blenheim Dam and Bladon Dam fall under the ambit of the Reservoirs Act 1975, and we provided the supervising Engineer services for both.

Over the years, there had been an increasing number of leaks and depressions appearing in the dam. Because it was originally constructed of a clay and rubble core, the toll of the last two centuries had caused the dam to erode. As a result of our continued inspections, significant works were identified. We conducted feasibility studies, advised on dredging, hydroelectric potential, ground investigations, and prepared designs and tender documents. This lead to the provision of an auxiliary spillway, dam clay core remediation, and remedial works, such as the strengthening of the Capability Brown rock cascade and restoration of the Taunt View.

The finished dam proves to be a viewing destination point—it even features a rerouted path that leads to the top of the cascade with a view down the valley. The multi-million-pound restoration of the 250-year-old dam was completed in October 2009 and we are currently providing ongoing engineering support for the dewatering and desilting works planned for 2020.

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  • Blenheim Palace Estates

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