The Challenge: Gaining Access Without Ground Damage
In Whitehaven, England, a mining company required access to an on shore site located beyond a stretch of working agricultural land. The ground was soft and susceptible to rutting, especially under the weight of drilling rigs and commercial vehicles.
In previous years, traditional wooden boards had been used to form access tracks, but these often failed under heavy loads and frequently damaged the land beneath. With operations scheduled to last 21 weeks, the client needed a solution that could provide safe, stable access while preserving the integrity of the farmland.
The GroundGuards Solution: MultiTrack Mats
GroundGuards recommended the use of MultiTrack, a durable, hand installable trackway system ideal for farmland applications. These lightweight 39kg mats can be laid without heavy lifting equipment, allowing fast installation even in remote areas.
A total of 320 MultiTrack mats were supplied and hired for the full duration of the project. The mats were configured into a twin trackway and a compound area, creating defined access lanes for drilling rigs, light commercial vehicles, and support units.
The mats' SmartGrip tread provided reliable traction, even in wet conditions, while their flexible construction helped distribute vehicle loads evenly across the ground surface. The entire trackway was installed quickly, minimising setup time and keeping the project moving.
Results and Outcome: Protected Land and Smooth Operations
Thanks to the MultiTrack system, the company was able to carry out the full 21 week programme without damage to the farmland. Vehicles passed across the site safely and efficiently, with no instances of bogging down or rutting.
The neat, tidy access route remained structurally sound throughout the project. Once removed, the mats left the underlying field in excellent condition, much improved from previous efforts using timber alternatives.
This successful outcome confirmed MultiTrack as a superior long term choice for agricultural access, providing both operational reliability and environmental peace of mind.
Contact GroundGuards for Agricultural Access Solutions
If your project involves crossing fields, farmland, or other sensitive ground, GroundGuards can supply the right trackway to meet your needs. Our team is here to help you protect your land while keeping your project on track. Contact us today to find out more.
