Project Overview
In early 2023, Leys Construction undertook a significant landscaping and groundworks project at a private residence in Shaldon, Devon. What started as a neglected, overgrown garden – resembling a jungle – was transformed into a stunning, functional outdoor space. The project involved solving serious drainage issues, creating new structural features like raised decking, and ensuring long-term weed suppression. The total project took three months to complete within budget.
Groundworks Challenges
The garden was in a state of disrepair when the team began their work. Years of neglect had turned it into a wild, waterlogged area, where drainage was poor and the ground was uneven. Water would flow uncontrollably across the property due to the lack of a proper system to manage runoff, creating muddy, unusable areas that posed a risk to the property’s stability. The overgrowth also contributed to a chaotic, unmanageable space.
Key Solutions and Work Performed
Leys Construction took a structured approach to the project, focusing on groundworks, structural enhancements, and landscaping.
- Groundworks and Drainage Installation: The first phase was to address the poor drainage. The team carried out extensive groundworks, installing a system of land drains to control water flow. These drains now direct excess water into a small natural stream located at the back of the property. This was a critical part of the work, ensuring that water was efficiently managed and the ground remained stable and dry, preventing future flooding or erosion. The use of specialised drainage materials and precise placement of the drains significantly improved the land’s usability.
- Concreting and Decking Construction: With the drainage issues resolved, attention turned to the structural elements of the garden. Leys Construction installed oak posts to support a new raised decking area at the back of the garden. The decking serves as both a functional and aesthetic enhancement, giving the homeowners a designated space for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. The team laid the foundation for the posts with careful concreting, ensuring that the structure would be durable and resistant to Devon’s often unpredictable weather conditions.
- Weed Suppression and Ground Stabilization: To prevent weed overgrowth and maintain the newly developed garden, the team installed a Terram membrane. This weed-suppressing material was critical to maintaining the long-term health and appearance of the garden. The black membrane, which had been laid during the winter, effectively prevents weeds from taking over while allowing for proper water drainage through the soil. This ensured the garden would remain low-maintenance for years to come.
Outcome
The result is a beautiful, functional garden that has been transformed from a wild, unusable space into a carefully landscaped, manageable outdoor area. The previously waterlogged ground is now properly drained, and the raised decking supported by solid oak posts provides a focal point for relaxation and entertainment. The Terram membrane ensures that the garden will remain low-maintenance, allowing the homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space without constant weeding or water management concerns.
Leys Construction successfully combined practical groundworks and concreting expertise with thoughtful design and landscaping, creating a garden that not only looks great but also functions perfectly for the homeowners. The transformation highlights the team’s ability to handle challenging projects, from Devon’s unique soil conditions to complex drainage systems, making them a go-to choice for major landscaping and structural work in the region.
This case study underscores Leys Construction’s capability in turning challenging sites into stunning, well-organized spaces, showcasing their attention to detail and expertise in both groundwork and landscaping.
For expert groundworks in Devon and quality construction in Devon, contact Leys today!
