Early Contractor Involvement (ECI): Mitigating Risk from Concept.
Feasibility studies are essential for evaluating the practicality of major utility, water, rail, highways and energy infrastructure projects, ensuring proposals are realistic, achievable, and positioned for successful delivery.
Our designs are informed by direct construction experience gained through delivery of complex pipe jacking, microtunnelling, shaft sinking and trenchless construction projects throughout the UK.
At HB Tunnelling, our design engineers, tunnelling specialists and construction delivery teams help clients assess route feasibility and identify key constraints that may require trenchless construction techniques to overcome special engineering difficulties. Consideration is given to budget cost, risk profile, programme and decision-making requirements, enabling all stakeholders to make well-informed investment choices.
We support the delivery and realisation of projects through a comprehensive range of management services. At the core of our approach is a rigorous and accurate risk assessment, supported by robust supply chain processes that control costs and minimise the impact of change. We strengthen project teams by integrating highly skilled and experienced discipline managers who foster collaboration, take ownership, and provide clear direction.
The ECI Advantage
We partner with you from the initial design development phases, ensuring there are no surprises in construction. Our multi-disciplinary support chain provides assistance on complex schemes, delivering surveys and investigations.
- Construction methodology selection (Pipe Jacking, Microtunnelling, Auger Boring and Open Cut)
- Temporary works strategy development
- Third-party approvals strategy
Key Consultancy Services
Geotechnical & Ground Investigation
Comprehensive site investigation (from trial pit to rotary) and expert geotechnical advice to fully understand ground strata, conditions, and associated risks.
Feasibility Studies & Assessment
Detailed initial studies, ground assessments, and project viability analysis to define the optimal tunnelling approach and scope.
Risk, Shaft & Temporary Works Design
Through our ECI contracts, we provide specialist design for launch shafts, reception shafts, segmental shafts, thrust walls, jacking frames, temporary structures, and crucial calculations for heave and settlement, including railway, highway and utility crossings, to protect existing infrastructure and assets.
Technique Specification & PM
Providing precise technique specifications, detailed scope definition, and professional project management support for smooth site execution.
Rail & Underground Assurance
We are well-versed in the assurance of Network Rail and London Underground projects. Our team includes accepted Contractors Responsible Engineers (CRE) and Contractors Engineering Managers (CEM) for major civil schemes, ensuring compliance with standards like NR – Forms A & B and CD622 Highways. Including Network Rail Form A/B approvals, National Highways CD622 submissions and Canal & River Trust approvals.
