The Challenge: A Unique Task on Protected Ground
On the wild and windswept Isle of Iona, Scottish Water faced a formidable challenge. Repairing an underground water tank meant moving 150 tonnes of concrete and aggregate across a fragile and protected landscape. As a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, the island demanded the utmost care throughout the works. Even a small disturbance to the ground could have lasting consequences for the unique local environment.
The GroundGuards Solution: XtremeMat Trackway
Working alongside civil engineering specialists MacAulay Askernish, GroundGuards recommended XtremeMat as the ideal ground protection system for this sensitive site. Each XtremeMat measures four metres by two metres, allowing the team to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. Thanks to a hard foam core, the mats remain buoyant over boggy sections while still offering the strength to support fully loaded haulage trucks. Careful planning was needed to get the mats to Iona on time. The journey began in Glasgow, with the mats shipped to Oban, ferried to the Isle of Mull, and finally transported by single-track roads to the last ferry crossing onto Iona itself. Installation on site proved straightforward. The project team found XtremeMat so intuitive that little instruction was needed. Over six weeks, 115 mats created a safe and stable haul road for essential deliveries. Locals even gave the bright yellow pathway a nickname - ‘The Ski Slope’ - in reference to its look and the efficient movement of materials down the hillside.
Results & Outcome: Seamless Protection and Local Praise
When the work was finished, the ground beneath the XtremeMat haul road showed no signs of damage. The project was completed on schedule, every SSSI requirement was met, and the client was pleased with how smoothly the solution worked. The unique landscape of Iona remained protected, and the whole operation ran without disruption.
Contact GroundGuards for Your Sensitive Sites
If your project involves challenging or sensitive terrain, GroundGuards can provide expert advice and reliable solutions. Our team specialises in ground protection for complex sites. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and ensure your project runs smoothly, whatever the conditions.
