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Earthworks Design & Methodology

Disclaimer: This procedure guides the operation of YVLF. It is intended as a working document that is improved through operational experience and updated accordingly. Please send updates, changes and comments to landfill@ncc.govt.nz

Flowchart

Procedure

    • Decision made by NTRLBU that earthworks are required for landfill operations, based on advice from site operator, geotechnical specialists, civil engineer etc.

    • Earthworks at York Valley Landfill are primarily covered by consent an Earthworks Consent RM215157 granted by the Nelson City Council in 2022 and expiring in 2034. [RM215157]

    • The required landfill parameters are determined.

    • The earthwork requirements are established based on waste disposal needs, available land, topography, stability, access, soil type etc.

    • A suitable Geotechnical Professional is engaged by NTLBU. [RM215157 (3)]

    • Using the landfill parameters and earthwork requirements the Geotechnical Professional will guide the development of a proposed earthwork design for review by NTRLBU.

    • The geotechnical engineer must be a chartered professional engineer experienced in geotechnical engineering or a suitably qualified and experienced Engineering Geologist (the geotechnical professional). [RM215157 (3)]

    • The geotechnical professional must, via a letter of engagement, commit to undertake the earthworks supervision, reviews, and inspections required during the implementation of the earthworks. [RM215157 (4)]

    • If the geotechnical professional changes during the project, the Council’s Monitoring Officer must be advised within 5 working days of the change, and a new letter of engagement must be provided. [RM215157 (4)]

    • All stormwater controls shall be designed and supervised by a suitably qualified and experienced Civil Engineer. [RM215157 (3)]

    • A SCMGA is required. [RM215157 (4)]

    • The SCMGA is a tailored evaluation process for a specific construction site including:

      • Geotechnical Investigations: Collecting soil and rock samples to understand ground conditions and risks.

      • Hazard Analysis: Estimating hazards like earthquakes based on seismic data.

      • Design Requirements: Using geotechnical findings to set construction criteria.

      • Risk Mapping: Creating spatial models of site constraints and risks.

      • Construction Methodology: Detailed plan for safe construction.

    • An EMP is required. [RM215157 (4)]

    • An EMP:

      • Provides the framework for managing earthworks in a manner that minimises environmental impact and ensures safety.

      • Sets out the procedures and practices to be followed during construction to prevent or mitigate potential adverse effects on the environment, particularly those related to stability, soil erosion, sedimentation, and stormwater management.

      • Includes measures for ensuring site safety and access, managing construction noise, and handling archaeological discoveries.

    • Once approved by the Council (see Council; approval of Earthworks section below), the EMP may only be modified by NTRLBU and following the consultation with the geotechnical professional and Council approval. [RM215157 (6)]

Reference

  • The earthworks authorised by this consent shall be implemented and inspected during construction under the supervision of a chartered professional engineer experienced in geotechnical engineering or a suitably qualified and experienced Engineering Geologist (the geotechnical professional). All stormwater controls shall be designed and supervised by a suitably qualified and experienced Civil Engineer.

    [RM215157V1]

  • At least 10 working days prior to undertaking any programme of earthworks authorised by this consent the Consent Holder shall notify the Council’s Monitoring Officer of the works and submit a Site-specific Construction Methodology and Geotechnical Assessment (SCMGA) and Earthworks Management Plan (EMP) for certification. The notification of works shall include a letter of engagement from the geotechnical professional (refer Condition 3), confirming their availability to undertake the earthworks supervision, reviews, and inspections required during the implementation of this consent. Should the geotechnical professional change over the duration of this consent, then the Council’s Monitoring Officer shall be advised accordingly, within 5 working days of that change occurring, and a new letter of engagement shall be provided.

    [RM215157V1]

  • No works shall commence until the SCMGA and EMP for each programme of earthworks are certified by the Council’s Monitoring Officer and thereafter the Consent Holder shall undertake the earthworks in accordance with the certified SCMGA and the EMP.

    [RM215157V1]

  • The EMP may be modified by the Consent Holder. Any changes must be undertaken in consultation with and supported by a suitably experienced geotechnical professional or a person suitably qualified and experienced in erosion and sediment control methodologies. A copy of the revised EMP shall be provided to the Council’s Monitoring Officer for certification. The changes shall not take effect until they are certified by the Council’s Monitoring Officer.

    [RM215157V1]