CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LVI, GLENGAD COMPOUNDS AND ACCESS ROAD CONSTRUCTION

CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Onshore Works Glengad
METHOD STATEMENT Rev 01

LVI, GLENGAD COMPOUNDS and ACCESS ROAD CONSTRUCTION
Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

Draft Environmental Management Plan
Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
LVI, Glengad Compounds and Access Road
COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 2 of 8
SUMMARY
The construction of the Landfall Value Installation (LVI) within a dished area will be facilitated by the
establishment of a construction compound. This compound will also facilitate the onshore works
associated with the umbilical installation, onshore pipeline construction, and pipeline commissioning. A
second compound will be established to construct the reception shaft for the Tunnel Boring Machine
(TBM)1. A permanent access road to the LVI will also be constructed.
PURPOSE
This method statement defines the method for the construction of the LVI,
establishing the Glengad construction compounds and permanent LVI access
road at Glengad.
LOCATION
Glengad Headland. The temporary working area from chainage 83.38 83.92
lies within the Glenamoy Bog Complex candidate Special Area of Conservation
(cSAC) Site Code 0000500 and is adjacent to the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven
proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) Site Code 004037. The northern
section of the access road from the L1202 is also in the cSAC.
HABITATS /
CONSERVATION STATUS
The habitats located within the temporary working areas at Glengad comprise
improved agricultural grassland and improved wet, rushy grassy grassland,
neither of which are EU annexed habitats.
With the exception of the southern section of the reception shaft compound,
these habitats are located within the cSAC.
TIMESCALE
The entire work scope will take approximately 26 months. The LVI construction
compound will be in operation for the entire duration of the onshore pipeline
construction including LVI surface water outfall pipe installation, LVI
construction, Umbilical pullin, onshore pipeline construction, tiein of the
onshore and offshore pipeline and final commissioning activities.
TECHNIQUE
Establishment of Glengad Compounds

The compounds will be installed as follows:
A 3m high palisade fence will be erected on grassland and secured by
concrete road barriers.
In designated sections the perimeter fence will be screened with a
suitable solid board to visually and acoustically screen the works in order
to minimise disturbance to birds and nonavian fauna.
A palisade fence fixed to precast concrete slabs will be positioned on the
foreshore to facilitate the LVI outfall pipe installation. This fence will be
removed upon reinstatement of the cliff face and replaced with a land
based fence installed along the top of the cliff.
The temporary fences around the construction compounds and the LVI
will be mammal proof.
A temporary access road and hardstand areas will be constructed using
locally sourced imported gravel/stone.
Temporary welfare facilities will be installed on prepared ground
separate from the main working areas. Containers will be positioned as
required within the compound.
All necessary electrical/telecom wiring, site services, lighting, piping,
ducting and fixtures will be installed.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 3 of 8
Earthworks and Civil Works

Topsoil will be stripped from LVI location and stockpiled in a designated
location separate from sub soil and other excavated material.
The dished area will be excavated, and the material stockpiled separate
to topsoil.
Individual LVI structures within dished area will be excavated.
Construction of LVI structures, pipeline and ancillary services installation
will be completed simultaneously.
Once all installation, inspection and testing has been completed, all
structures will be backfilled to their designated finished levels.
Permanent fencing and associated security systems will be erected.
Topsoil will be placed on new embankment slopes. An open mesh
biodegradable textile (GeoJute) maybe used on the slopes surrounding
the LVI to stabilise topsoil against erosion.
LVI Mechanical , Electrical and Commissioning works
The piping, valves, structures, and chambers will be erected on the

prepared LVI foundations.
The relevant LVI components will be welded/jointed and inspected.
The offshore pipeline will be connected to the LVI.
The required LVI and pipeline commissioning, including hydrotesting, will
take place within the construction compound.
Offshore Umbilical Installation (Onshore Works)
The compound will also be used to support the offshore umbilical pull
ashore.
Prior to the pull ashore a winch base will be constructed and winch
installed. This winch will be used to pull the offshore umbilical line
through the existing umbilical conduit to a termination point onshore at
the LVI.
Following the pull ashore the umbilical will be monitored and tested
during offshore installation.
Following the offshore lay of the umbilical, the onshore winch and base
will be removed and area reinstated.
Reinstatement
The compound will not be reinstated until the end of the construction period
however, some reinstatement will take place prior to this if progress allows. In
general, reinstatement will progress as follows:
Excess materials from the excavation of the LVI dished area will be
reused elsewhere if possible and the surplus removed to a licensed waste
facility.
Construct permanent access road to LVI using the specified mix of stone
and soil.
Remove temporary facilities.
The site will be reinstated using the stockpiled topsoil and vegetation will
be allowed to regenerate naturally. No seed will be imported.
All drains will be reinstated to their previous condition or, as agreed with

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 4 of 8
the relevant parties.

Where appropriate, simple, surface gravel field drains will be put in place
to prevent water logging.
The temporary palisade fencing will then be removed off site and stock
proof fencing will be erected to protect the reinstated areas.
EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS
RESTRICTIONS
Excavators
Articulated flatbeds and tipper
trucks
Front tipping trucks
Temporary welfare cabins
Palisade security fence
Winches and hydraulic power
packs
Hydrotest equipment
Some sections of the temporary working area lie within the Glenamoy Bog
Complex Complex cSAC and adjacent to the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven
BaypSPA
CONTINGENCY
Cranes and lifting equipment

Side booms
Concrete pump
Electrical tools
Welding equipment
Synthetic fabrics
Commissioning plant and
equipment
Storage tanks
General working hours are restricted to between 07:00 19:00 weekdays

and 07:00 and 16:00 Saturday.
Noise and vibration limits
Lighting constraints
Excavated material may have to be screened for potential reuse.
See Tunnelling Operations and Reception Shaft Method Statements

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
LVI , Glengad Compounds and Access Road

COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 5 of 8
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION

IMPACT
Noise and vibration will be minimised through design, and
Noise, vibration and lighting
appropriate section of plant and machinery.
Disturbance.
Proactive maintenance of plant and equipment.
Cladding of stationary machinery such as generators.
Increased dust levels
A 3m high nontransparent noise barrier will be installed in

designated places around the perimeter of the construction
compounds to prevent disturbance to birds in the pSPA .
Mobile and fixed site lighting will be designed to limit light

spillage.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to

ensure dust levels due to construction activities are kept to a
minimum.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 6 of 8

IMPACT
Damage to habitats, including Access Road
cSAC habitats
The sod bank which forms the boundary on the eastern side of
the access road (from the public road) will be fenced off to
protect it from damage during construction. Any temporary
widening of the access road will be done on the western side.
LVI and Glengad Compounds
An earthen (sod) bank forms the cSAC boundary to the south of

the temporary working area adjacent to the LVI and onshore
pipeline temporary working area. This sod bank will be fenced
off to prevent construction activities encroaching on it.
Fencing will be put in place to protect the Annex 1 habitats

located to the north of the compounds.
No seed will be imported in order to prevent the pollution of the

native gene pool by alien genotypes.
The top soil removed from the footprint and compounds will be
carefully stored (separately from the subsoil).
Following construction this topsoil will then be used on the areas

to be reinstated, including the slopes of the LVI and they will be
left to revegetate naturally.
To aid topsoil stability and vegetation regeneration, an open

mesh geotextile membrane (GeoJute) may be laid on the side
slopes of the LVI excavation.
Surface drainage will be put in place at the time of reinstatement

to prevent water logging where appropriate.
Stone used will be locally sourced.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 7 of 8

IMPACT
Ground nesting birds
Disturbance to Birds
Prior to construction, the temporary working area will be mowed

in order to discourage ground nesting birds from attempting to
breed on the temporary working area.
A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in

order to ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on
lands to be disturbed.
Sand Martin
A Sand Martin colony is located in the soft cliffs to the north and
north east of the landfall at Glengad. Mitigation measures as
outlined below will be put in place.
An exclusion zone will be defined above and behind the

colony such that no construction activities affect the existing
burrows or threaten the stability of the cliff in which the
burrows are situated.
Apart from specialists conducting monitoring, no personnel,

traffic or construction activities will be permitted between
the temporary fencing and the clifftop directly above the
colony.
Soil stockpiles will be covered where necessary with a fine

mesh netting to prevent sand martins from making nest
burrows therein.
Lighting in site compounds will be directed downwards and

be designed to minimise light spillage outside the working
area.
pSPA
Visual and acoustic screening will be placed on the palisade fence

in designated places to prevent disturbance to birds in the pSPA.
Lighting will be directed downwards and be designed to minimise

light spillage outside the working area.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

COR14OPSH0000 EMP
Page 8 of 8

IMPACT
The palisade fence around the LVI and reception shaft
Construction activities may
compounds will be mammal proof.
have negative impact on local
wildlife (otters and badgers
The remainder of the fencing demarking the temporary working
etc).
area, including the access road, will have mammal gates at the
base at 75m intervals. These will allow mammals (otters and
badgers etc) free access across, and a means of escape from, the
temporary working area.
During construction ramps will be provided at open trenches to

provide a means of escape for otters and badgers and other
wildlife.
Pollution of terrestrial /
aquatic habitats due to
spillage or leaks of oil/diesel
from plant and equipment.
Release of suspended solids

from the works may have
negative impact on water
quality.
Visual impact from the LVI

structure.
Earthworks may disturb
archaeological remains.
Machinery and plant will be inspected prior to mobilisation to

site.
Refuelling of plant/machinery will take place in designated areas

only.
Spill kits will be available on site
The LVI surface water outfall pipe will not be used for
dewatering of excavations.
A surface water management system will be utilised to ensure

removal of suspended solids prior to discharge to receiving
waters at an agreed location.
Surface drainage will be put in place at the time of reinstatement

to prevent water logging where appropriate.
The LVI will be constructed in a dished area to reduce visual

impact of structure.
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations

in previously undisturbed areas.


LVI Surface Water Outfall Pipe and Cliff Reinstatement

Title:
Document No:
Method Statement
Revision: 01
LVI Surface Water Outfall

COR14OPSH0000 SEPIL EMP
Page 1 of 5
SUMMARY
The Landfall Valve Installation (LVI) Surface Water Outfall will be constructed by excavating a trench and
installing the pipe, headwall and gabion basket structure within the cliff face. The cliff face will be
subsequently reinstated and the outfall pipe trench backfilled with excavated material.
PURPOSE
This document defines the method for installation of the LVI surface water
outfall pipe and subsequent reinstatement of the cliff section at Glengad.
LOCATION
Glengad Headland.
The temporary working area from Chainage 83.38
83.50 lies within the Glenamoy Bog Complex candidate Special Area of
Conservation (cSAC) and the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven proposed Special
Protection Area (pSPA).
HABITATS /
CONSERVATION STATUS
Habitats comprise nonannexed improved agricultural grassland (cliff top),

reinstated sedimentary cliff; upper shoreline; and nonqualifying intertidal
Annex I habitat (1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea water at
low tide).
TIMESCALE
The works will take approximately 8 weeks to complete, timed so that the
works associated with the cliff face will be undertaken between April and
September. This is to avoid disturbance to feeding Brent Geese during the
overwintering period. The remaining works will take place outside this
time period.
TECHNIQUE
LVI Outfall Pipe Trench and Cliff Excavation

Temporary site palisade fencing will extend through the cliff cut and
extend onto a limited section of the foreshore (Ch 83.38
approximately).
A trench will be excavated from the cliff face and material will be
stored temporarily within the Glengad compound for reinstatement.
This material will also be used to form a suitable access ramp onto the
foreshore for the installation of the surface water outfall pipe.
The excavation of the trench in the cliff face may be up to 5.5m in
depth and up to 15m wide. All trench arisings will be temporarily
stored in the Glengad compound.
The trench will be excavated towards the LVI, sloping trench sides as
necessary.
In sections of restricted working area or where ground conditions are
poor, the surface water outfall pipe will be laid using a trench box or
support structure.
Installation of Pipe Headwall and Gabion Basket Structure
The headwall will be constructed by means of hand filled gabion

baskets around the outfall pipe blended in to the existing cliff face.
A geotextile separation layer will be placed at the base of the cliff face,
on top of which a headwall will be constructed using gabion
mattresses and baskets.
The baskets will be filled with locally sourced stone to maximise the
integration of the headwall with the existing cliff and surrounding
environment.

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Method Statement
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The area in front of the headwall will be reinstated with locally

sourced stone chosen to maximise the integration of the outfall with
the existing cliff and surrounding environment.
Installation of LVI surface water outfall pipe

The LVI surface water outfall pipe will be placed in sections and joined
in the prepared trench.
The LVI surface water outfall pipe will be backfilled after testing.
The backfill material shall consist of compacted fine material with
progressive layers of excavated material being utilised to complete
trench backfill.
Cliff and Trench Reinstatement
The cliff face will be reinstated once the outfall pipe installation has
progressed an adequate distance from the cliff to enable full cliff
reinstatement.
As the gabions are installed the cliff material will be compacted in
layers progressing to original ground level. The subsoil will be graded
to reflect the original contours of the headland.
Geotextile may be required on steep sections of the cliff to prevent
wind erosion and silt run off.
The foreshore area will be reinstated to the highest achievable
standard with maximum reuse of original foreshore material.
Surplus foreshore material will be reused or disposed of at a licensed
facility.
Any surplus imported rock will be removed offsite for reuse.
The temporary fencing will be removed from the foreshore during cliff
reinstatement.
A stock proof fence will be erected on the cliff top for protection of
people and livestock.

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Method Statement
Revision: 01

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EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS
Excavators
Articulated tipper trucks
Front tipping trucks
Cranes
Welding Equipment
RESTRICTIONS
The working area lies within the Glenamoy Bog Complex

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven Bay cSPA 4037
CONTINGENCY
Pallisade Fencing
Surface Water Outfall Pipe
Gabian Baskets and locally
sourced stone
Synthetic fabrics
Normal working hours are restricted to between 07:00 19:00 weekdays

Noise and vibration limits Lighting constraints.
A rock breaker mounted on an excavator, maybe required to achieve the

required depth for the LVI outfall pipe or the LVI outfall pipe termination
gabion installation.

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Method Statement
Revision: 01

Page 4 of 5

IMPACT
Noise, vibration and lighting Noise and vibration will be minimized through design, and
appropriate selection of plant and machinery .
Disturbance.
Proactive maintenance of plant and equipment.
Damage to habitats in the

cSAC and pSPA
Screening will be placed on the palisade fence in designated

places to prevent disturbance to birds in the pSPA.
Mobile and fixed site lighting will be designed to limit light

spillage.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to

ensure dust levels due to construction activities are kept to a
minimum.
No machinery or personnel will be permitted outside the

temporary fencing on the foreshore with the exception of
specialists who are conducting monitoring / survey work.
Works will be restricted to the section of cliff which was
reinstated in 2009. Fencing will protect the previously
undisturbed cliff on either side of the currently reinstated
section of cliff.
Sediment / pollutant run off control measures (see below) will be
implemented to minimise impact on shoreline, intertidal and
marine habitats.
Imported stone, including that used for cliff reinstatement, will
be locally sourced.
Preconstruction surveys for otters and badgers will be
undertaken within 13 months prior to construction. The areas
to be included are approximately 50100m either side of the
centre line of the pipeline for otters, and 30m either side of the
centre line for badgers.
Wildlife will be excluded from the temporary works area by
means of mammal proof fencing.
Construction activities may

have negative impact on local
wildlife otters and badgers.

Title:
Document No:
Method Statement
Revision: 01

Page 5 of 5

IMPACT
Disturbance to Birds and the
pSPA
Prior to construction a walkover survey will be undertaken to
check for ground nesting birds and the temporary working area
onshore will be mowed to discourage these birds.
A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in
order to ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on
lands to be disturbed.
Sand Martin
A Sand Martin colony is located in the soft cliffs to the north and
north east of the landfall at Glengad. Mitigation measures as
outlined below will be put in place.
An exclusion zone will be defined above and behind the

colony such that no construction activities affect the existing
burrows or threaten the stability of the cliff in which the
burrows are situated.
Apart from specialists conducting monitoring, no personnel,

traffic and construction activities will be permitted between
the Temporary Working Area fencing and the clifftop
directly above the colony.
A wide foreshore exclusion zone will be in place to prevent

any activity on the foreshore below and in front of the
burrows which may deter normal behaviour and could result
in lowered breeding success.
Soil stockpiles will be covered where necessary with a fine

mesh netting to prevent sand martins from making nest
burrows therein.
Lighting will be directed downwards and designed to

minimise light spillage outside the working area.
Acoustic & visual screening of construction activities will be

in place.

Title:
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Method Statement
Revision: 01

Page 6 of 5

IMPACT
Brent Geese
Brent Geese over winter in the pSPA from October to the end of April
and feed on algal beds adjacent to the Glengad landfall site.
Pollution of terrestrial /
aquatic habitats due to
spillage or leaks of oil/diesel
from plant and equipment.

from the works could have
quality.

archaeological remains
Construction activities for the LVI outfall, including cliff

reinstatement works will be carried out during summer
months and outside the overwintering period.
Machinery and plant will be inspected prior to mobilisation to

site.

only.
Refuelling will not take place on the foreshore.
Spill kits will be available on site.
As much as possible, construction works associated with the cliff

cut will be carried out during low tide or neap tides to prevent
inundation and subsequent mobilisation of sediment into the
marine environment.
In drain mitigation will be placed as required to reduce silt

impact on associated surface waters.
The LVI surface water outfall will not be used for dewatering of
excavations during construction works.
A surface water management system will be utilised to ensure

removal of suspended solids prior to discharge to receiving
waters at an agreed location.
Pumped water will be subject to sediment control measures.
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations

in previously undisturbed areas.


ONSHORE PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION (Glengad)

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Onshore Pipeline Construction Glengad

Page 1 of 6
SUMMARY
This method statement outlines the methodology for the construction of onshore gas pipeline and services
from the tie in of the offshore pipeline to the Landfall Valve Installation (LVI) and from the LVI to the
tunnel reception pit.
PURPOSE
This method statement defines the methodology for construction of the pipeline
and services in Glengad, to include preparation of the pipeline temporary working
area, pipeline installation and reinstatement.
LOCATION
Glengad Headland, between chainage 83.49 and 83.86.

Most of the temporary
working area is within the Glenamoy Bog Complex candidate Special Area of
Conservation (cSAC). It is in close proximity to the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven
proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA).
HABITATS /
CONSERVATION
STATUS
The habitats located within the temporary working areas at Glengad comprise
improved agricultural grassland and improved wet, rushy grassy grassland, neither
of which are EU annexed habitats.
With the exception of a short section of the pipeline route, these habitats are
located within the cSAC.
TIMESCALE
Preparation of the temporary working area and construction of the pipeline are
expected to take approximately two months. It should be noted that the
temporary working area will remain fenced off until the completion of tunnelling
operations to facilitate removal of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) and to allow
connection of the pipe within the tunnel to the pipe laid onshore.
TECHNIQUE
Temporary Working Area Preparation

The temporary working area will be fenced off using 3m high palisade
fencing.
In designated sections on the northern side of the works, the perimeter

fence will be screened with a suitable solid board to provide a visual and
acoustic screen.
Topsoil within the temporary working area will be stripped and

stockpiled onsite. Subsoil will be stockpiled separately.
Any earthen (sod) banks to be impacted will be carefully dismantled with

the surface sods being stored separately and maintained during
construction. Those earthen (sod) banks which do not require to be
dismantled will be fenced off to protect them from construction traffic.
A running track, consisting of geotextile overlaid with materials

excavated during LVI construction and/or locally sourced stone, will be
constructed to allow access for construction plant.
Drains within the temporary working area will be identified by marker

posts
Interceptor drains and flume pipes will be installed, as necessary, to

isolate and divert surface water arising off site to receiving waters.

Method Statement
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Revision: 01

Page 2 of 6
Limited access across the temporary working area for landowners will be
provided for by agreement with the landowner and when construction
works allow safe access.
Pipeline Construction
All pipelines will be strung out, welded and tested prior to excavating the
trench.
The pipeline trench will be excavated and the material stockpiled onsite.
Should any distinct layers in the subsoil be encountered, they will be
excavated and stockpiled separately.
The excavated trench will be dewatered if required, from a sump box at
the lowest point.
The pipe sections will be lowered into the trench by means of side booms
and inspected and backfilled with selected imported material. The main
body of the trench will be backfilled with materials excavated from the
trench. All soil layers will be reinstated in reverse order to the manner in
which they were excavated.
Reinstatement
As stated previously, the temporary working area and running track will be
maintained until after completion of the tunnel and associated tiein works. Some
reinstatement of the pipeline trench may be permitted after pipeline installation.
Final reinstatement will be as follows;
The temporary running track will be removed off site for reuse, if
appropriate and its route reinstated.
The site will be reinstated using the stockpiled topsoil and vegetation will be
allowed to regenerate naturally. No seed will be imported.
All drains will be reinstated to their previous condition or as agreed with the
relevant parties.
Where appropriate, simple, surface gravel field drains will be put in place to
prevent water logging.
Earthen (sod) banks will be fully reinstated.
The temporary palisade fencing will then be removed off site and stock proof
fencing will be erected to protect the reinstated areas.
Note: All movement of materials will be through the Glengad compound entrance.

Method Statement
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 3 of 6
Excavators
Articulated Dumptrucks
Tracked Dumpers
Side booms
Some sections of the temporary working area lie within the Glenamoy Bog
Complex Candidate cSAC and are adjacent to Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven Bay pSPA.
Construction works will be sequenced to facilitate the early commencement

of reinstatement works if possible.
Normal construction work is restricted to between 07:00 19:00 weekdays
Noise and vibration limits.
Lighting constraints.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Noise, vibration and
lighting Disturbance.
Damage to habitats,
including those in the
cSAC
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 4 of 6
MITIGATION
Noise and vibration will be minimised through design, and appropriate

selection of plant and equipment.
Proactive maintenance of machinery to minimise noise and vibration.
Acoustic screening & fencing to minimise noise.
Site and mobile lighting will be designed to limit light spillage.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to ensure dust

levels due to construction activities are kept to a minimum.
Fencing will be put in place to protect the Annex 1 dune grassland

located to the north of the proposed pipeline route.
The top soil removed will be carefully stored (separately from the sub
soil) in order to maintain the seedbank.
No seed will be imported to prevent pollution of the native gene pool by

alien genotypes.
Sod banks impacted by construction will be carefully dismantled and

reinstated by hand.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
MITIGATION
Disturbance to Birds and

the pSPA
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 5 of 6
Prior to construction, the temporary working area will be mowed in

order to discourage ground nesting birds from attempting to breed on
the temporary working area.
A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in order to
ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on lands to be
disturbed.
Sand Martin
A Sand Martin colony is located in the soft cliffs to the north and north east
of the landfall at Glengad. Mitigation measures as outlined below will be
put in place.
An exclusion zone will be defined above and behind the colony such
that no construction activities affect the existing burrows or
threaten the stability of the cliff in which the burrows are situated.
Apart from specialists conducting monitoring, no personnel, traffic

or construction activities will be permitted between the fenced
temporary working area and the clifftop directly above the colony.
Soil stockpiles will be covered where necessary with a fine mesh

netting to prevent sand martins from making nest burrows therein.

pSPA
At the northern side of the pipeline works, visual and acoustic

screening will be placed on the palisade fence in designated places
to prevent disturbance to birds in the pSPA.


Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Construction activities
may have negative
impact on local wildlife.
Pollution of terrestrial
and aquatic habitats due
spillage or leaks of
oil/diesel from plant and
equipment.
Release of suspended
solids from the works
may have negative
impact on water quality.

archaeological remains.
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 6 of 6
MITIGATION
Preconstruction fauna surveys will be undertaken within 13 months

prior to construction, including for otters and badgers. The areas to be
included for these two species are approximately; 50100m either side
of the centre line of the pipeline for otters, and 30m either side of the
centre line for badgers.
During construction, ramps will be provided at open trenches to provide

a means of escape for otters and badgers and other wildlife. Mammal
gates will be provided at the base of the fencing at 75m intervals to
allow otters and badgers free access across, and a means of escape from
the Temporary Working Area.
Machinery and plant will be inspected prior to mobilisation to site.
Refuelling of plant/machinery will take place in designated areas only.
The LVI outfall will not be used for discharge from dewatering of
excavations during construction works.
A surface water management system will be utilised to ensure removal

of suspended solids prior to discharge to receiving waters at an agreed
location.
Surface drainage will be put in place at the time of reinstatement to

prevent water logging where appropriate.
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations in

previously undisturbed areas.
Onshore Works Aughoose
Aughoose Compound Construction
Shell E&P Ireland Ltd.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

COR-14-OP-SH-0000 SEPIL EMP
Page 1 of 9
SUMMARY
The works involve the erection of security fencing, site enabling works and all associated works to facilitate
the erection and construction of various temporary structures required to service the tunnelling
operations and subsequent pipeline installation.
PURPOSE
This method statement outlines the general method and sequence for installation
of all temporary structures and services required for tunnelling. Actual tunnel
operations and launch shaft construction is detailed elsewhere.
LOCATION
Aughoose Compound, pipeline chainage 88.67 to 89.11. The Aughoose Compound

is adjacent to the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC (Site Code 000500) and the
Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA (Site Code 004037).
HABITATS /
CONSERVATION
STATUS
Habitats comprise non-annexed modified blanket bog habitats, eroding blanket

bog and cutover. They do not form part of any designated conservation site.
TIMESCALE
Approximately 6-8 months to construct the compound which will be operational

for a further 20 months depending on seasonal reinstatement. Construction of a
2nd entrance (Access B) will take place approximately 10 months after the main
entrance is constructed.
TECHNIQUE
The construction of the temporary compound comprises a number of main

construction operations; security fencing, entrance road construction, services
installation, initial welfare area construction, peat/stone handling area
construction, peat stockpiling, shear key construction, settlement pond
construction, site drainage installation, bulk earthworks, flexible pavement
construction, rigid pavement construction, retaining wall construction and
acoustic barrier construction. These operations are completed generally as
follows;
Security Fencing
A 3m high palisade fence is to be erected along the site boundary with the
L1202. This will involve a period of temporary traffic control to facilitate
this operation. All traffic control measures will be in accordance with
Chapter 8 of the Dept. of Transport Traffic Signs Manual and will be of
short duration.
A 3m high palisade fence situated on bog mats will be used where the site
boundaries are on peat (east, north and western sides).
In designated sections, the perimeter fence will be fitted with a suitable

solid board liner to visually and acoustically screen the works in order to
minimise disturbance to birds in the pSPA and otters on shorelines and
along the Leenamore River.
Entrance Road Construction
The site entrance road will be constructed using the stone road method of
peat replacement/displacement with selected imported locally sourced
stone.
The stone road will consist of a peat stone matrix (approximately 0.5m of
peat left insitu with a 300mm to 500mm single size stone pushed into it,

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forming a peat stone matrix).
Starting at the L1202 (incorporating the traffic control measures in

Chapter 8 of the Dept. of Transport Traffic Signs Manual) the road
construction will proceed northwards into the site.
All excavated peat will be placed directly into the peat storage area and
spread as required.
The initial 50m will consist of a widened site entrance to facilitate the
correct sightlines and a double gate security system for deliveries, visitors,
etc.
The entrance road will be widened inside the 2nd access gate to allow
laden vehicles turn around once they have passed through the gate. This
widened area will be removed once the entrance road opens out into the
peat handling area.
The stone road construction operation will also involve a temporary

surface water treatment system involving the construction of lined v*
shaped drainage channels, temporary settlement lagoons and a mobile
settlement/treatment unit. All surface water runoff from the stone road
construction will flow through the water treatment system prior to
discharge to the existing surface water ditch.
A secondary entrance (Access B) will also be constructed using a

temporary bog mat access from the peat handling area. A temporary
ramp will be installed to allow vehicular access from Access B onto the
L1202. For the initial construction phase of the project, Access B will only
be used in the case of emergency.
* V-ditches will be lined with impermeable high density polyethylene (HDPE) liner.
Services Installation
Trenches will be excavated within the site roads to facilitate the

installation of a surface water collection system, a watermains and
ducting for temporary power and telecoms.
All services will be installed to relevant engineering standards using an

open trench method in the installed stone road.
Services will be continuously tested and backfilled as excavation

progresses using the same materials excavated.
Peat/Stone Handling Area
In order to facilitate the export of peat to Srahmore a specific vehicle

turning and loading area (peat/stone handling area) will be constructed to
separate road traffic from site traffic.
Peat excavated from various locations of the site will be transported to

this location.
Peat suitable for stockpiling will be separated from peat which is to be

transported to Srahmore.
Part of this area will also be used for stockpiling stone used in

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construction operations.
A wheel wash facility will be installed in this area.
Initial Welfare Area Construction
The initial welfare area and materials laydown area will be constructed
within the peat handling area on the north-west side of the main access
road.
Welfare facilities will consist of toilets, offices, drying rooms, storage

containers, waste compactors and skips, canteens and bunded chemical
stores.
Peat Stockpiling
The peat from the surface of the site (generally 0.6 m), including the
surface vegetation, will be stockpiled onsite for reinstatement after
tunnelling completion.
It should be noted that an additional quantity of peat will be stored onsite
for reinstatement of locations where mineral soil will be excavated.
Peat stockpiling will involve the construction of a temporary bog mat
access into the designated areas.
Peat stored in the peat handling area will be transferred to the peat
storage area.
The vegetation layer will be placed (roots downwards) on top of the stored
peat so that it can continue to grow during storage and be available for
subsequent reinstatement.
The bog mat access will be removed as the area fills and will be reinstalled
again during reinstatement operations.
Shear Key Construction
In order to mitigate against geotechnical risks associated with peat
excavation (e.g. slippage of peat), a shear key will be installed around the
perimeter of the tunnelling compound by means of the stone road
method.
This will be completed prior to any excavation of the main body of peat
from the tunnel compound.
Peat excavated during shear key construction will be brought to the peat
handling area prior to stockpiling in the peat storage area or transport to
Srahmore.
Settlement Lagoon Construction

Prior to excavation of the main body of peat (bulk earthworks), a
settlement lagoon will be constructed at the low point of the site.
The lagoon will be constructed and lined/sealed with a HDPE liner. All
water collected in the various drainage ditches and pipes will flow to this
lagoon.

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An additional water tank will be constructed at the same time as the

settlement lagoon to provide additional storage capacity if required.
Settlement ponds will be covered by firm wire mesh (WeldMesh) of small
enough mesh size to prevent access to birds.
Site Drainage Installation
A surface water drainage system will be installed in the roads, shear keys
and main site as each section of works progresses.
The drainage system will consist of gullies, underground pipework,
manholes and a number of lined open ditches.
This system will collect all rainwater by gravity flow to the settlement
lagoon, passing through a bypass separator.
Acoustic Barrier Construction
The entire tunnelling compound will be surrounded by an acoustic fence.
Acoustic fence construction will progress in conjunction with shear key
construction.
This fence will be in place prior to commencement of bulk earthworks.
Bulk Earthworks
Once the shear keys, settlement lagoon and overground water storage
tank have been installed bulk excavation of the main body of peat will
commence.
This will be completed by means of excavators and dumptrucks and will
coincide with the replacement of the peat by imported fill.
In general, an approximate 0.5m depth of peat will be left insitu to form
the peat stone matrix, the surface peat will be stored onsite and the
remainder transported off site.
The peat will be completely removed where required in settlement critical
locations.
Flexible Pavement Construction
A flexible bitumen bound surface will be constructed over the majority of
the site (i.e access roads, shear keys etc).
This flexible pavement will consist of imported stone and bitumen bound
macadam materials to NRA specifications.
This will provide an impervious surface to reduce run off from the stone
roads and will provide an easily maintained clean surface for tunnelling
works.
Rigid Pavement Construction

In certain locations on the site the standard flexible pavement will be
replaced by a rigid pavement.

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The rigid pavement will be constructed from reinforced concrete and will
generally form foundations and bunded areas at various locations.
Retaining Wall Construction
At various locations retaining walls will be installed where a level platform
or a gradual fall is required for tunnelling works.
These walls will be constructed from precast items where possible for
future recycling. Where precast structures cannot be used, in situ concrete
walls will be constructed.
Stringing Area
Once tunnelling operations commence the stringing area construction can
begin.
This will be completed by means of excavators and dumptrucks and will
coincide with the replacement of the peat by a mixture of tunnel arisings
and imported fill.
In general, an approximate 0.5m depth of peat will be left in situ to form
the peat stone matrix, the surface peat and vegetation layer will be stored
on site, as for the tunnelling compound, and the remainder transported off
site.
A stone road will be constructed from the stringing area over to access B,
replacing the original bog mat emergency access. This road will be
constructed 10 months after initial site mobilisation.
Reinstatement
Once all tunnelling, pipelaying, testing and commissioning are complete

the entire compound will be reinstated with a layer of peat which was
previously stored in the peat storage area.
All construction materials that can be reused (fencing, bogmats, precast

retaining walls, underground pipework, etc.) will be carefully dismantled
and transported off site.
Other materials such as surplus stone will be returned to local quarries or

used elsewhere in the locality if possible.
Materials which cannot be immediately reused (i.e. tarmacadam, concrete

etc) will be transported to a recycling facility.
Any materials which do not fit the above criteria will be removed to a
licenced waste facility.
In locations where peat was entirely removed during construction (e.g

crane locations) the imported fill will be excavated and a 1m layer of peat
will be installed on top of the mineral soil level and the fill placed back on
top of this peat layer again.
The top 300mm to 500mm of stone will be excavated and removed off
site.
Finally, the entire area will be covered with a layer of peat from the peat
storage area with the site being returned to its original levels in
preparation for habitat restoration.

Method Statement
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
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The surface vegetation layer will then be reinstated under the direction of
the Project Ecologist.
Once the area is reinstated, the original drainage system will be reinstated
and the perimeter security fence will be removed off site.
Stock proof fencing will be erected to protect the reinstated areas.
LGP ExcavatorsTracked Excavators

Articulated DumptrucksWheeled Excavators
Front Loading DumpersTracked Dumpers
Articulated Trucks (road going)Road sweepers
Water BowsersTractors
RollersVibrating wackers
Concrete pumpsCranes
LoadallsGenerators
Lighting towersPavers
Chip spreadersTar sprayers
Tack coatersPitch cart
Thermoplastic lining trucks
Turving bucket (for use during reinstatement)
Working adjacent to:

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA.
Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC.
Normal construction work will take place between 07:00 and 19:00
weekdays and 07:00 and 16:00 on Saturday. Only essential works will
carried out between the hours of 19:00 and 07:00.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Noise, Vibration,
Lighting - Disturbance
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MITIGATION
Noise and vibration will be minimized through design, and appropriate

Proactive maintenance of plant and machinery.
A 3m high non-transparent noise barrier will be installed around the
perimeter of the tunnelling compound.
Mobile and fixed site lighting will be designed to limit light spillage.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to ensure

dust levels due to construction activities are kept to a minimum.
Potential for indirect

impact on habitats and
species in the adjacent
cSAC /pSPA
Robust measures (see below) will be implemented to prevent

sedimentation and pollution of the adjacent Annex I estuarine and
interidal habitats in Sruwaddacon Bay and species which depend upon
them, including salmon.
Direct impact on
habitats as a result of
construction activities
Habitat reinstatement and vegetation restoration

During the initial site establishment works, plant material will be
harvested from areas which will be impacted during construction. This
will be removed from the site for propagation and for use during
reinstatement.
The surface layer of peat will be stored on site. The stripped vegetation
layer will be placed, right way up roots downwards, on top of the
peat in the peat storage areas for use in reinstatement.
If required, stored peat will be covered with Geo-jute to stabilise it and
to encourage vegetation growth following storage.
During re-instatement, the entire area will be re covered with a layer of
peat, and the vegetation from the top of the peat storage areas will be
replaced under direction from the Project Ecologist.
A phased re-instatement programme will be undertaken over 1 to 5
years.
Once the reinstated peat has stabilised, peat forming conditions will be
created by means of pool creation and Sphagnum inoculation.
Native scrub species will be planted in places in the reinstated peat
storage areas.
may affect local wildlife

(otters and badgers)
Fencing for the tunnelling compound will be fully wildlife proofed to

prevent mammals entering site.
Acoustic and visual screening on fences will minimise disturbance to
otters on shorelines of the bay.
During construction, ramps will be provided at any open trenches
accessible to wildlife to provide a means of escape.
Work activities will be limited to between the hours of 07:00 and 19:00.
Night caps will be placed over all pipe ends.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
may affect amphibians
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MITIGATION
Disturbance to birds in
the adjacent pSPA and
birds on migration

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Any frogs (adults, spawn and tadpoles) identified prior to, and during,
construction will be translocated under licence to a suitable location.
Habitat reinstatement will re-create the former channel and drain
systems so that frogs may use these post construction.
Acoustic screening barriers will be installed on the temporary
perimeter palisade fencing.
Solid acoustic fencing will be used within the compound to minimise
noise.
Lighting will be designed to minimise light leakage into the pSPA (light
intensity no more than 0.3 lux at the shoreline).
Green (beacon) lighting will be installed on tall structures and uprights
to reduce collision risk.
Settlement ponds will be covered by firm wire mesh (WeldMesh) of
small enough mesh size to prevent access to birds.
Robust sediment and pollution control measures to prevent impact on
prey species in the Bay (benthic macrofauna and fish species).
the locality (other than
in the pSPA)
Pollution of
Land/Water/ cSAC and
pSPA habitats & species
due spillage or leaks of
oil/diesel from plant
and equipment
could have negative
impact on water
quality, cSAC and pSPA
habitats & species
therein including
salmon

ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on lands to be
disturbed.
Vegetation restoration and planting of native scrub species during
reinstatement.
Refuelling of plant/machinery will only take place in designated areas.
The surface water treatment system will comprise a bypass separator

for removal of hydrocarbons followed by a settlement lagoon for
removal of suspended solids and the installation of a filtration system
for finer particles.
V-ditches will be installed up slope and down slope of peat storage
areas.
In drain mitigation will be placed as required to reduce silt impact on
associated waterways.
Culverts will be placed at locations where access roads must cross
existing drains and ditches.
Concrete wash system will be installed.
Wheel wash system will be installed.
Any concrete poured in situ will be covered to prevent run off during
rainfall as per industry best practice.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Change in local
hydrology/hydrogeological regimes.
Title:
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MITIGATION
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An approximate 500mm depth of peat will be left in situ to form a peat

stone matrix in all areas except those classified as settlement critical.
The stone for constructing the stone road will be locally sourced and
carefully selected to ensure that it is appropriate for the local
environment within the peat.
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all peat excavation

and tunnelling activities.
Construction of Start Shaft and Ramp

Method Statement
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Construction of tunnel start shaft and ramp

COR-14-OP-SH-0000_SEPIL EMP
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SUMMARY
This document defines the construction methodology and sequence of works for the construction of the
starting shaft and ramp in the Aughoose Compound, for the Corrib Onshore PIpeline. In order to facilitate
commencement of the tunnelling works it is necessary to excavate a shaft and ramp into which the Tunnel
Boring Machine (TBM) will be lowered. The TBM will be lowered in sections into the shaft/ramp for
assembly prior to commencement of tunnelling.
PURPOSE
The start shaft and ramp will provide the commencement point for tunnelling works
and will serve as the main access corridor between the tunnel and the surface for
transport of material, plant and labour into and out of the tunnel.
LOCATION
The start shaft and ramp will be located in the Aughoose Compound at chainage
88.77. The start shaft is approximately 18m long x 9m wide and 12m deep, the
adjoining ramp is approximately 75m long x 6m wide and ranging in depth from 6m to
12m below ground level. The Aughoose Compound is adjacent to the Glenamoy Bog
Complex cSAC (Site Code 000500) and the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA (Site Code
004037).
HABITATS /
CONSERVATION
STATUS
The habitat present at the starting shaft is non-annexed eroding blanket bog. The
Aughoose compound is not in any designated conservation site.
TIMESCALE
The duration of construction of the start shaft and ramp is approximately six to seven
months. It is anticipated that construction will take place in 2011/2012.
CONSTRUCTION
METHODOLOGY
The construction of the start shaft and ramp is based on the use of a sheet piling
system with the placement of concrete for support in the lower part of the
excavation.
Under this method of construction the sequence of construction would be as follows:
In the deeper parts of the start shaft/ramp, where it is required to install
sheet piles through bedrock, the bedrock will be pre-drilled in order to
facilitate the installation of the piles.
Piles will then be installed to the required depth using appropriate drilling
and driving equipment.
Commence with initial excavation of material from within the footprint of
the sheet piles (to an initial depth of approximately 2m below the original
ground level).
Install upper level props or anchors as required to brace the sheet piles.
Continue with excavations down to bedrock level.
Install anchors at low level as required to brace the sheetpiles.
Commence with breaking and excavating of bedrock to the required level.
Place and construct reinforced concrete support in the lower part of the
excavation.
Construction of the TBM soft eye / sealing body.
Piling Works
The ground conditions expected to be encountered in the construction of the

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shaft/ramp will consist of an upper layer of engineering fill, mineral soil and
overlying bedrock. It is expected that bedrock will be encountered along the
entire length of the start shaft and ramp. As such the rock will be required to be
predrilled prior to the installation of the piles.
The size and geometry of the piles installed through the bedrock will be varied to
suit the installation process and the requirements of the detailed design. Where
piles are installed into bedrock it is envisaged that the piles will terminate below
the base of the excavation.
Following the initial installation of the piles, excavation will commence. As these
progress the sheet piles will have to be propped. To do this a series of walers will
be lifted into position inside the excavation and secured in place onto the
sheetpiles once the upper 2m of excavation has been carried out.
Where upper level anchors are required in the walls then they will be installed
prior to the positioning of the walers and later tensioned following the
installation of the walers. Lower level anchors may also be required depending
upon the outcome of the detailed design.
Excavations
Upon installation of the sheet piles it will be required to excavate the material
from within the area enclosed by the sheet piles. Excavation will be carried out in
various stages. Initially, the upper 2m of material will be removed using an
excavator(s) after which a series of struts/wailers will be installed to support the
upper level of the sheet piles. The struts will act as props spanning across the
excavation props will be secured to walers placed on the face of the sheet piles
within the excavation.
If necessary, a series of anchors will be installed as described above. Excavations

will then re-commence and be progressed down to bedrock.
Where bedrock level is reached within the excavation it may be necessary to

install additional anchors through the sheet piles in order to ensure the stability
of the sheet pile structure prior to works progressing deeper. These anchors will
be installed using a drill rig working within the excavation.
Following the installation of the anchors, excavation for the lower section of the
shaft/ramp will recommence. In order to remove the bedrock from the lower
level of the excavation, excavator(s) will be fitted with hydraulic breaker(s) which
will be used to break out the rock. Depending on the integrity of the rock
encountered additional excavation measures may be required (such as predrilling) to facilitate the extraction/removal of rock.
As and when sufficient volumes of rock have been broken, an excavator(s) will
remove the broken rock from the excavation. A crane may also be utilised to assit
with the removal of rock from within the lower level of the shaft/ramp.
Groundwater ingress into the excavation will be controlled by pumping from

sumps located in the floor of the excavation. Water from pumps will be

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discharged into the settlement lagoon or to an alternative temporary

storage/treatment facility, if necessary.
Excavated material brought to the surface will generally be loaded into a dump
truck and either reused on site or transported to a temporary stockpile within the
Aughoose compound from where it will be transported off site.
Placement of Concrete
Concrete will be required to support the piles in the lower part of the excavation
(through the bedrock) and also for the construction of the required slab at the
bottom of the excavation.
Upon completion of the excavation works to the required level, reinforced

concrete, 0.5 to 1.0 m thick will be constructed in situ at the bottom of the shaft
and ramp. To prevent uplift of the concrete it may be required to install a series
of rock anchors into the bedrock underlying the reinforced concrete slab. These
anchors will be installed using a drill rig working from within the partially
completed ramp/shaft excavation.
Low strength concrete will be used to form the TBM soft eye / sealing body.
Reinstatement
Once the onshore pipeline and associated services have been installed in the
tunnel and the tunnel fully grouted, the start shaft and ramp will be backfilled.
The pipeline and associated services will be backfilled with suitable bedding and
surround material.
EQUIPMENT
The remaining excavation will be backfilled with suitable material compacted in

layers to within 1m of the underside of the original peat depth where a 1m layer
of low permeability reworked peat will be placed. Further backfilling of suitable
compacted material will continue to the underside of the surface reinstatement
layer, which will comprise peat.
As backfilling progresses upwards, sheet piles left in situ will be cut to a depth of
1m below finished ground level. Anchors used for bracing of the sheet piles will
be distressed and props/walers removed.
Reinstatement of the peat layer will be in accordance with the method statement
for the Aughoose Compound.
The surface vegetation layer will then be reinstated under the direction of the
Project Ecologist.
Piling rigs
Mobile cranes
Telehandlers/ Lifting and loading
devices
Excavators
Various pumps
Hydraulic breakers
Dump trucks
Rotary drilling equipment
Drilling rigs for anchor installation
Miscellaneous small tools

Method Statement
RESTRICTIONS
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Working adjacent to:

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA
Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC
Normal construction works will be restricted to between the hours of 07:00 and 19:00
weekdays and 07:00 and 16:00 Saturday.

IMPACT
Noise and vibration will be minimised through design, and

appropriate selection of plant and equipment.
Proactive maintenance of machinery.
Acoustic screening & fencing.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to ensure

dust levels due to construction activities are kept to a minimum.
Potential for indirect impact

on habitats and species in the
adjacent cSAC /pSPA
Robust measures (see below) will be implemented to prevent

sedimentation and pollution of the adjacent Annex I estuarine and
intertidal habitats in Sruwaddacon Bay and species which depend
upon them, including salmon.
Noise, vibration and lighting.
Direct impact on habitats as a

result of construction
activities
Careful reinstatement of the area will be carried out following the

completion of the tunnelling works.
Habitat reinstatement and vegetation restoration will be carried out
as set in the Aughoose Compound Method Statement.
Disturbance to birds in the

adjacent pSPA and birds on
migration
Mitigation measures, as set out for the Aughoose Compound as a

whole, will be implemented
Disturbance to birds in the

locality (other than in the
pSPA)
A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in order

to ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on lands to be
disturbed.

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Pollution of Land/Water/ cSAC
and pSPA habitats & species
oil/diesel from plant and
only.
equipment.

from the works could have
quality, cSAC and pSPA
habitats & species therein
including salmon.

Groundwater which may ingress into the excavation will be

controlled by setting up temporary sumps in the floor of the
excavation to dewater the excavation. Pumped water will be subject
to sediment control measures.
A surface water managment will be utilised to ensure removal of

suspended solids prior to discharge to receiving waters at an agreed
location.
Please refer to the Aughoose Compound Method Statement
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations in

previously undisturbed areas.
Onshore Works Construction of Tunnel

Tunnelling Operations

Method Statement
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COR-14-OP-0000_SEPIL EMP
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SUMMARY
This document describes the construction of the 4.9km segment lined tunnel in which the Corrib Onshore
Pipeline between Glenagd and Aughoose will be installed.
PURPOSE
A 4.9km segment lined tunnel will be constructed using a Tunnel Boring Machine
(TBM) between Aughoose and Glengad.
LOCATION
The segment lined tunnel will be constructed from the starting shaft located at
Aughoose (approx. Chainage 88.77). From there, the pipeline route traverses
(underneath) the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC and the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven
pSPA at Sruwaddacon Bay in a north-westerly direction towards Glengad for
approximately 4.9km, where the reception shaft (Chainage 83.88) will be
constructed in the cSAC. The tunnel will be constructed with a minimum depth of
cover of 5.5m.
TIMESCALE
It is anticipated that the tunnelling process will take approximately 15 months to

complete (at an average of 11m/ day).
The tunnelling construction will be carried out on a 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week
basis.
Other associated works, such as material transport and tunnel arisings disposal will
be executed between the hours of 07:00 and 19:00 weekdays and 07:00 and 16:00
Saturday.
CONSTRUCTION
METHODOLOGY
The scope of works for the construction of the segment lined tunnel can be
generally divided into the following work steps:
Construction of the 4.9km tunnel including access ramps, starting shaft

and reception shaft;
Installation and testing of the 20 inch gas pipeline and services in the
tunnel; and
Grouting of the tunnel and re-instatement of the shafts.
Further details on the construction of the start and reception shafts are provided in
other method statements.
Prior to the commencement of tunnelling, the Aughoose compound is

constructed and associated utility systems, e.g. an appropriate surface water
management system, are made available. A separate method statement
describes the construction of the Aughoose compound.
Plant and equipment required for the tunnelling, including the TBM, are then
mobilised to site.
All TBM assembly and material supply will be managed from the starting shaft
in Aughoose.

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Plant and Equipment

The main plant and equipment required for the tunnelling process include:
Gantry crane;
Grout mortar Silos
Slurry treatment plant
Bentonite tanks and silos
Freshwater tank
Water storage tanks
Filter press
Power generation units
Following the installation of all the required plant and the set up of the site
compound and function testing the tunnelling process will commence.
Tunnel construction:
The tunnel will be constructed using a slurry shield tunnelling method which
involves the drilling/boring of the soil face using a TBM and then installing
precast concrete segments as the TBM progresses.
The cutting wheel at the front of the TBM tunnels into the ground. The TBM is
controlled by the steering cylinders within the TBM which pushes the cutter
head in the desired direction.
Power switchboards, hydraulic and logistic units are all installed near the TBM
on a number of back-up trailers. These trailers (typically of 8 10 m length) are
interconnected and pulled by the TBM through the tunnel.
Concrete segments are transported to the front of the tunnel on a train that
runs on tracks within the tunnel during construction. These tracks are installed
in parallel to the tunnelling operation on one of the TBM back-up trailers.
The stacked segments are transported through the tunnel to the tail skin by a
supply system with train cars and cranes. An erector unit located within the
TBM is used to pick up the segments from the train and it installs the segments
into the designated position. Once installed they are bolted to the already
installed ring and segments.
Concrete segments which are erected inside the back end of the tunnelling
machine (the tail skin) and assembled to form a complete segment ring which
is connected, grouted and when in position acts as the tunnel lining.
After completion of one segment ring, all jacking cylinders are extended for a
further advance cycle. By using this method of tunnel lining, the already built
concrete tunnel remains stationary and serves as an abutment for the advance
of the TBM. Grout (annulus grouting) is injected into the overcut behind the
installed segment rings, which is created by the cutting wheel during
excavation.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Page 3 of 6
Slurry lines for spoil transport, air duct for ventilation, pressurised air supply
and power/communication cables are installed inside the tunnel to support
the drilling process.
Drilling fluid consisting of a suspension of water and bentonite (bentonite

slurry) is used for lubrication and cooling of the cutting head, removal of
cuttings and stabilisation of the cutting face.
Bentonite slurry suspension will be pumped through the feeding pipe into the
TBM working chamber. It is mixed with the excavated soil / rock and pumped
back through the slurry discharge pipe to the separation plant at Aughoose
Compound. The soil is separated and the recycled bentonite slurry suspension
pumped through the tunnel back into the TBM working chamber.
The excavated materials from tunnelling (tunnel arisings) is separated from the
drilling fluid/bentonite slurry mixture using a separation plant where shakers
are deployed and stockpiled temporarily within the Aughoose Compound in
designated area.
The surplus bentonite slurry will be removed and dewatered in a filter press.
After being treated in the filter press the filter cake is dry enough for
transportation to a licensed waste facility.
Mixing of Grout Mortar
Grout mortar will be used for grouting the annulus of the tunnel (voids behind
the segments). The grout mortar will also be used for filling the tunnel
following the installation of the pipeline and services.
Mixing of grout will take place in a controlled and contained environment

using automated mixing tanks located in the Aughoose Compound. Grout silos,
located adjacent to the mixing tanks, will be filled with dry cement brought in
by container truck. The cement will be blown into the storage silos from the
container truck using a sealed unit and stored there for mixing as required
during the works.
The mixing operation will involve the grouting mix and water. This is then
pumped in containers which are transferred to the tunnel using the tunnel
railway.
To prevent ingress of water and grout into the TBM, brush seals between the
tail skin and the erected segments are filled with grease.
Demobilisation and Reinstatement:
When the TBM reaches the receiving shaft in Glengad, it will be recovered and
the installation of the gas pipeline and services can start. Installation of the
pipeline and services is from Aughoose.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Page 4 of 6
Demobilisation of the TBM will be carried out at the Glengad site. Tunnelling
equipment, such as separation plant, bentonite treatment plant, grout silos,
etc. at the Aughoose Compound will be demobilised in stages upon completion
of the significant elements of the works.
Once the onshore pipeline and associated services have been installed in the
tunnel and the tunnel fully grouted, the start shaft and ramp will be backfilled.
Backfilling of the Tunnel & Pipeline Installation:
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
The grout mortar will also be used for filling the tunnel following the
installation of the pipeline and services.
The equipment associated with this backfilling operation will be located at the
Aughoose compound and the backfilling operation will be carried out from one
side only by pumping the backfilling mix through the pre-installed grouting.
Tunnel boring machine (TBM)
Filter press
TBM back-up system
Supply system, feeding pipes / cables
Tunnel segments
Control Station
Track and train system
Lifting and loading devices
Separation plant
Tanks
Bentonite handling unit
Gantry crane
Bentonite silos
Mortar silos
Tunnel will be constructed underneath:

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA
Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC
Non-essential activities may require to be suspended at the Aughoose Compound
on Easter Sundays during periods when Mass is taking place at the nearby
commemorative site.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Page 5 of 6
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
MITIGATION
Release of bentonite to
environment
The composition of slurry is designed to suit the geotechnical conditions.
Bentonite pressure and rate of usage will be monitored constantly. In the

event of bentonite release the bentonite operating pressure will be reduced
immediately to reduce bentonite loss.
Bentonite sensors will be installed in the excavation chamber. The chamber

can be separated from the slurry system.
The TBM speed will be altered to suit the ground conditions.
In the unlikely event of a bentonite release the design and operation of the
TBM will limit the volume to 7m3.
Measures will be implemented at Aughoose and Glengad to prevent any

egress of bentonite into watercourses leading into the cSAC /pSPA. A hard
standing area for bentonite handling plant will be located in the Aughoose
Compound. There is a separate drainage system where the run-off is
collected and pumped into a used bentonite tank. During removal of the
TBM at Glengad, the shaft will be partially flooded. This water will be
contained within the shaft and removed offsite for treatment at an
appropriate licensed water treatment facility. Robust measures will be
taken to ensure there is no bentonite release during the loading, handling
and transport of the TBM in Glengad.

Proactive maintenance of machinery.
Cladding of stationary machinery such as generators and separation plant.
Acoustic screening & fencing.

lighting disturbance.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
the adjacent pSPA and
birds on migration
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Page 6 of 6
MITIGATION
Acoustic screening barriers will be installed on the temporary perimeter

palisade fencing.
Solid acoustic fencing will be used within the compound to minimise noise.
Lighting will be designed to minimise light leakage into the pSPA (light
intensity no more than 0.3 lux at the shoreline).
Green (beacon) lighting will be installed on tall structures and uprights to
reduce collision risk.
Settlement ponds will be covered by firm wire mesh (WeldMesh) of small
enough mesh size to prevent access to birds.
Robust sediment and pollution control measures to prevent impact on prey
species in the Bay (benthic macrofauna and fish species).
See LVI, Glengad Compounds and Access Road MS for details of further
mitigation.
Potential for indirect

impact on habitats and
species in the adjacent
cSAC /pSPA
Robust measures (see below and Aughoose Compound Construction MS)

will be implemented to prevent sedimentation and pollution of the adjacent
Annex I estuarine and interidal habitats in Sruwaddacon Bay and species
which depend upon them, including salmon.

Pollution of
Land/Water /cSAC and
pSPA habitats & species
Refuelling of plant/machinery will take place in designated areas only.
and equipment.
A surface water management system will be utilised to ensure removal of
suspended solids prior to discharge to receiving waters at an agreed
location.
could have negative
impact on water quality

A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations of the
tunnel start and reception shafts.

In the event of an archaeological find the archaeologist may have work on

the site stopped, pending a decision as to how best to deal with the
archaeology by the Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs
(DAHGA) (previously assigned to the Department of Environment, Heritage
and Local Government (DoEHLG).
Onshore Works Construction of Tunnel

Bentonite Handling and Monitoring

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 1 of 6
SUMMARY
This document describes the handling and monitoring of bentonite during tunnelling for the Corrib
Onshore Pipeline project.
WHAT IS
BENTONITE?
Bentonite is a natural product comprising very fine inert clay which is widely used
in an aqueous suspension in tunnelling construction projects.
Bentonite is considered by the OSPAR Commission* as being a substance that
Poses Little or No Risk to the Environment (PLONOR)
PURPOSE
The Corrib Onshore Pipeline will be installed into a 4.9km segment lined tunnel.
4.6km of this tunnel will be constructed beneath Sruwaddacon Bay which
comprises part of the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC and the Blacksod
Bay/Broadhaven pSPA.
A tunnel boring machine (TBM) will be used to construct the tunnel by excavating
material in front of the TBM, behind which concrete segments will be installed.
A drilling fluid consisting of a suspension of water and bentonite (bentonite
slurry) is used for lubrication and cooling of the cutting head, removal of cuttings
and stabilisation of the cutting face.
BENTONITE USE
BENTONIITE
HANDLING
The bentonite slurry will be pumped to the TBM via pipes within the tunnel
where it is introduced at the cutting face. As the soil is excavated by the TBM,
it passes through a crusher at the rear of the cutting head.
All material is reduced to a maximum size of approximately 40mm and then

hydraulically transported as a bentonite slurry to the surface via the slurry
discharge line.
The bentonite slurry containing the excavated material is pumped back to the
seperation plant located at the Aughoose Compound.
Excavated materials from tunnelling (tunnel arisings) will be separated from

the bentonite slurry mixture and stock-piled temporarily on the site in
purpose designated area.
Recycled slurry will be pumped back to the TBM excavation chamber by

means of feed pumps located at the separation plant and in the tunnel where
the process is repeated.
Solids will be removed from the excess bentonite slurry in a filter press and
the solid cake (filter press outcome) will be disposed of at licensed waste
facility. Process water from the filter press requiring disposal is tankered
away and disposed off at a licensed water treatment plant.
Bentonite handling will occur in the following areas: and the process is outlined in
Figure 1 below :
Bentonite mixing plant
Bentonite will be delivered as powder to the Aughoose Compound where it

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 2 of 6
will be stored in silos.
The supply of dry bentonite powder to the mixing plant is fully automated via
a closed screw conveyor system. Bentonite will be mixed with water in the
bentonite mixing plant prior to being pumped to the fresh bentonite storage
tank. This process will be carried out within a closed system.
Fresh Bentonite Storage Tank

The fresh bentonite storage tank is used to store the drilling fluid before it is used
at the TBM tunnelling process.
Separation Plant
The purpose of the separation plant is to separate the excavated material

from the transporting medium (bentonite slurry).
The separation plant is the central facility where the bentonite slurry coming
from the TBM is treated and recycled. It is then fed back to the header tank
(linked to the fresh bentonite storage tank) through the slurry circuit to the
TBM.
After
The
function
remaining
being
ofliquid
the
in
filter
will
the press
filter
be disposed
is
press
to
the
ofprotection
solids
at licensed
theare
remaining
wastewater
prior
solids
totreatment
been
from the
* OSPAR commission: Administrator
of the
Oslotreated
and
Paris
Conventions
forseparate
the
ofstored
the
marine
environment
Filterplant.
used
disposed
Press
slurry
offfrom
at a licensed
the separation
waste plant.
facility.
of the North-East Atlantic

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
FIGURE 1: TYPICAL BENTONITE SLURRY FLOWCHART

Page 3 of 6

Method Statement
CONTROLS
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 4 of 6
The bentonite slurry system is a controlled operation from the silos to the cutting
face and back through the slurry system to the separation plant.
During Tunnelling
Bentonite slurry will penetrate the surrounding ground over a short distance
in order to support TBM face during tunnelling. The pressure of the slurry at
the soil face will be controlled by a compressed air cushion inside the TBM,
which allows for rapid changes of the slurry volume in mixed ground
conditions, while automatically maintaining a pre-set face support pressure.
The pressure at the soil face will be continuously measured and monitored by
the TBM operator and alarmed when limit values are met.
The design and the operation of the TBM will ensure that any break-out
release will be contained to around 7m3
In the unlikely event of a:

Bentonite loss beyond the immediate vicinity of the tunnel bore; the
bentonite operating pressure will be reduced.
Uncontrolled bentonite leakage within the slurry circuit; internal actions

will be initialised immediately to identify and eliminate the cause of the
problem.
Uncontrolled bentonite breakout on the TBM cutting head; the

bentonite operating pressure will be reduced immediately to reduce
bentonite loss. Immediate actions will be initialised to identify, eliminate
the cause of the problem.
Onsite at Aughoose Compound
Bentonite handling will be carried out within a closed system and located in a
hard standing area. It will have a separate drainage system from which all
run-offs will be collected and pumped into a used bentonite tank.
Bentonite, though not considered to be a hazardous material, will be stored

and handled within a contained unit. Surplus bentonite slurry following
completion of tunnelling will be treated and disposed of at an appropriate
licensed water treatment facility.
Onsite at Glengad Reception Shaft Compound
MONITORING
During removal of the TBM at Glengad, the shaft will be partially flooded. This
water will be contained within the shaft and removed offsite for treatment at
an appropriate licensed water treatment facility.
Robust measures will be taken to ensure there is no bentonite release during

the loading, handling and transport of the TBM in Glengad.
The use and consumption of drilling fluid in the tunnelling process will be
monitored throughout the works by material balance calculations and pressure

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 5 of 6
control.
EQUIPMENT
The bentonite slurry level in the cutter head is continuously monitored by

a series of level sensors.
The volume imbalance or the reduction in pressure and bentonite levels
would alert the operator and mitigation measures as listed below would
quickly be put in place to control any localised breakout.
The feed and discharge pipes of the TBM are equipped with a flow
indicator and a density measurement system to monitor the most
important parameters of the bentonite suspension and mass balance. All
values will be stored electronically and can be monitored at any time in
the control cabin of the TBM as well as in the site office and the
Separation Plant.
The separation plant control cabin is also equipped with monitoring
equipment where all the bentonite suspension data is shown.
In the TBM the face pressure will be monitored by the TBM operator via
pressure sensors located in the excavation chamber. The pressure values
will be electronically stored and can be monitored continuously in the
control cabin of the TBM as well as in the site office and the separation
plant.
TBM
Separation Plant
Filter press (secondary slurry process)
Fresh bentonite tank
Used bentonite tank
Slurry pipes
Slurry pumps

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 6 of 6
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
MITIGATION
Release of bentonite to
environment
The composition of slurry is designed to suit the geotechnical conditions.
Bentonite pressure and rate of usage will be monitored constantly.
Bentonite sensors will be installed in the excavation chamber. The chamber

can be separated from the slurry system;
The TBM speed will be altered to suit the ground conditions.
Measures will be implemented to prevent any egress of bentonite into

watercourses leading into the cSAC /pSPA at Sruwaddacon Bay. A hard
standing area for bentonite handling plant will be located in the Aughoose
Compound. There is a separate drainage system where the run-off is
collected and pumped into a used bentonite tank. During removal of the
TBM at Glengad, the shaft will be partially flooded. This water will be
contained within the shaft and removed offsite for treatment at an
appropriate licensed water treatment facility. Robust measures will be
taken to ensure there is no bentonite release during the loading, handling
and transport of the TBM in Glengad.
In the unlikely event of a bentonite release the design and operation of the
TBM will limit the volume to 7m3.
Construction under Leenamore Inlet

Environmental Management Plan
Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 1 of 6
SUMMARY
The works involve the construction of the Corrib Onshore Pipeline across the Leenamore inlet and the wet
marshy areas either side.
PURPOSE
Outline the general methodology for the construction of the onshore

pipeline through the Leenamore inlet and wet grasssland areas either side
of the river inlet.
LOCATION
Leenamore inlet crossing and wet marshy areas either side (pipeline
chainage 89.11 to 89.35.)
The Leenamore inlet lies within the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC (Site Code
000500) and the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven pSPA (Site Code 004037).
Habitats comprise non-annexed improved wet rushy agricultural grassland
on either side of the inlet.
HABITATS/CONSERVATION
STATUS
TIMESCALE/ TIMEFRAME
TECHNIQUE
Intertidal habitats (EU annexed i: Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea
water at low tide and Upper and Lower Saltmarsh) are non-qualifying
habitats located within the cSAC and pSPA. The approximate area of these
habitats to be disturbed at this location is 2,000 m, which equates to less
than 0.002% of the cSACs total land cover.
Approximately 6 weeks (river crossing period is approximately 2 days). It
will be completed during a period of optimum conditions (dry period of low
river flow coinciding with a period of neap tides). Construction will not take
place during the salmon spawning season without prior written agreement
from IFI and DCENR.
Temporary working area preparation works

A 85 metre wide area will be fenced with 3m high fencing.
A section of this fence will be located on the foreshore.
The fence will be situated on bogmats or on precast concrete slabs
where ground conditions require.
Crossing Preparation works
Concrete coated pipes will be prepared prior to construction.
Cobbles within the river inlet to which epifauna & flora are attached will
be preserved by relocating to a similar position in the intertidal zone on
the shore, away from the works area. These will then be reinstated on
completion of construction works. A survey of the intertidal area will be
carried out on a receding tide to mark tidal lines in advance of
cobble/stone relocation and storage during the works.
Areas of salt marsh likely to be impacted by the works will be turved by
means of an excavator with a specially designed turving bucket. The
machine used for salt marsh turving will work in the inter-tidal area and
transfer turves to a turve storage area. Machinery will not be allowed to
track across the salt marsh during the separation of upper layers of the
foreshore.
The salt marsh turves will be stored in the intertidal area in a single
layer, on the foreshore which will be cleared of large stones prior to
placement. This will provide an even surface for storage.
A geotextile will be used at the seaward edge of the stored turves to
protect against wave action in high winds. The geotextile will be

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 2 of 6
removed prior to lifting of turves during reinstatement.

The salt marsh turves will be stored at the western edge of the
Leenamore Inlet, to the north of the pipeline route but within the
temporary working area, as this area is least susceptible to wave action
during prevailing westerly winds.
The surface layer (approximately 300mm) of the intertidal area will be
carefully lifted and stored to reduce the impact to the organisms
therein. This material will be used for reinstatement.
The two processes (salt marsh turving and separation of upper layer of
foreshore) will be undertaken at the same time, at low tide, allowing
gradual access across the inlet.
Onshore preparation works

The top soil in the wet grassland areas on either side of the inlet will be
stripped and stockpiled to one side of the temporary working area and
stored separately from the underlying peat /peaty soil.
River Crossing Preparation
The Leenamore River crossing will be carried out using an open-cut

trench. A stone road will be constructed using locally sourced, washed
stone (screened to remove fines) within 10 metres either side of the
river crossing.
A sand bag dam structure will be placed across the river inlet on both
sides of the excavation area. This structure will assist in containing
sediments, mobilised during excavation works, within the working area.
A flume pipe will be laid on the bed of the river to direct flow through
the temporary working area. The flume pipe will be used to divert river
flow during construction activities and will allow installation of the
onshore pipeline.
If required by the Inlands Fisheries Ireland (IFI), electrofishing will be
carried out, under permit, prior to instream works. All fish encountered
will be removed and relocated upstream. A strip net will be placed
upstream to prevent fish from entering the area. The stop net will be
removed upon completion of the works.
A temporary access bridge for construction traffic will be installed for
crossing of the Leenamore Inlet during pipeline installation works.
Pipeline Installation
The trench will be excavated so that the cover above the pipeline to the
riverbed will be a minimum of 1.6m.
Excavation will be carried out using two excavators located at opposite
sides of the river inlet. Machinery movement within the inter-tidal area
will be avoided.
Excavation will be carried out using perforated buckets to allow
separation of solid material from water.
Excavated material will be loaded into dumpers and transferred to the
Aughoose Compound for storage.
Once the trench is ready the prefabricated pipelines (one pipeline, one
sleeve) will be transported from the Aughoose compound and placed
into the trench.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 3 of 6
Reinstatement of the inlet
Following the laying of the pipeline and sleeve, the trench will be
backfilled initially with a 150mm sand or pea gravel surround followed
by coarse, silt free material (natural gravel) or, depending on quality, the
excavated material. Impact protection in the form of precast concrete
slabs will be placed over the pipeline and sleeve.
The upper layer of river bed sediment (300mm), that was stored
separately, will be replaced to reinstate the area where the open trench
existed.
The geotexile protection will be removed prior to lifting the turves from
the storage area. The salt marsh turves will then be moved back into
place. Temporary staking and horizontal timber boards (planks) will be
used to protect the outer edges of the turves against wave action during
recovery. Biodegradable geogrid may be used on the surface of the
turves if considered necessary.
The banks of the inlet will be stabilised to prevent bank erosion. Any
excess stone will be removed.
The temporary access bridge will be removed during reinstatement of
the salt marsh.
Finally, the large cobbles will be reinstated.
Reinstatement of the fields either side of the inlet
The wet grassland areas on either side of the inlet will be reinstated by
means of replacing the underlying peat /peaty soil and then spreading
the stockpiled top layer material in readiness for landscaping and
planting.
All security fencing will removed after reinstatement completion.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 4 of 6
EQUIPMENT
Lifting Booms
Bulldozer.
Dump trucks.
Rubber tyred excavators
Tracked Excavators
RESTRICTIONS
Turving bucket
Articulated trench rollers
6 inch water pumps
Filtration tank
The Leenamore inlet is within the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC and the
Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven pSPA.
Intertidal habitats are EU Annex I habitats (EU Habitats Directive):
1. Atlantic salt meadows (Salt marsh).
2. Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea water at low tide.
Requirement to turve areas of upper and lower salt marsh.
Tidal conditions in the estuary and fluvial flows from the Leenamore
River.
Works will be completed during suitable tides and during a period of low
flow in the Leenamore River.
Construction work will be restricted to take place between 07:00 and
19:00 weekdays and 07:00 and 16:00 on Saturdays.
Lighting constraints .
Works will be undertaken only after prior agreement with relevant
statutory bodies, in consultation with the Project ecologist.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 5 of 6
POTENTIAL
MITIGATION
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Construction Works
Duration of
construction will be minimised.
negatively impacting
Mammal
gates
will be provided at the base of the fencing at 75m intervals to
local environment
allow otters and badgers free access across and a means of escape from the
Ramps will be provided at intervals along the trench line to allow a means of
escape for wildlife should they enter the trench.
Weather forecast and tide tables to be observed before commencement of
construction in this area to ensure works are undertaken in suitable
conditions.
Works will be undertaken in summer time i.e outside the overwintering
period for the pSPA.
A walkover survey of onshore sections including shorelines will be undetaken
prior to construction in order to ensure that no ground nesting birds are
present on lands to be disturbed.
Water monitoring will be carried out in line with section 2.5.3 of the
Environmental Monitoring Programme (EMP, Appendix A).
Release of suspended Containment, settlement and /or filtration methods will be used where
solids from the worksnecessary and will be put in place prior to commencement of preparation
could have negativeworks.
impact on estuarine, Once the river flow is isolated, river bed excavation works can commence.
intertidal, andOperation of machinery within the river inlet and use of machinery in the
riparian habitats andimmediate vicinity of the inlet will be kept to a minimum to avoid any
species.unnecessary disturbance.
Disturbance of bankside soils and inlet sediments will be kept to the
minimum required for the pipe laying process to avoid unnecessary impact
on the river habitat.
If pumps are utilised, care will be taken to screen pump inflows to protect
fish and to ensure that the watercourse upstream of the barriers is not
pumped dry.
Splash plates will be placed at the outflow of pumps to ensure that scouring
and suspension of fine sediments does not take place.
Locally sourced quarry stone will be used adjacent to the inlet
(approximately 10m each side).
Upon completion of the instream work, the inlet will be restored to its
original configuration and stabilised to prevent bank erosion by means of
timber stakes, timber planks and geotextiles as required.
Pollution of terrestrial Machinery and plant will be inspected for potential leaks prior to being used
/ aquatic habitats duein the crossing works.
spillage or leaks of Refuelling of plant/machinery will only take place in designated areas.
oil/diesel from plant Spill kits will be available on site.
and equipment.

Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Release of sediment
from works could
have negative impact
on estuarine,
intertidal, and
riparian habitats and
species.
Interference with the
chemical balance
caused by nonchemically
compatible materials
such as stone.
lighting Disturbance.
may have a negative
impact on salt
marshes due to the

friable nature of the
substrate and
relatively low
coherence of the
vegetation layer.
Damage to river
bank.
Earthworks may
disturb archaeological
remains.
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 02

Page 6 of 6
MITIGATION
Sediment Control measures will be put in place prior to commencement of

preparation works.
Locally sourced and washed quarry stone will be used adjacent to the river
inlet (approximately 10m each side).

selection of plant and machinery
Proactive maintenance of plant and machinery will be carried out.
Mobile lighting will be designed to limit light spillage.
Machinery will not be permitted to move across areas of salt marsh during
the separation of upper layers of foreshore.
Control measures outlined in the construction technique must be complied
with. Particular attention will be given to protection of salt marsh prior,
during and post construction.
Upon completion of the instream work, the river inlet bank will be restored
to its original configuration and stabilised to prevent bank erosion by means
of timber stakes and fencing.
A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all ground disturbances.
Onshore pipeline construction in recovering eroded blanket bog

(190m section)

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Construction in recovering eroded blanket bog (190m)

Page 1 of 8
SUMMARY
The works involve construction of a pipeline (and associated stone road) in a 190m section of recovering
eroded blanket bog and the reinstatement of same.
PURPOSE
Outlines the general methodology for completing the onshore gas pipeline through a
190m section of recovering eroded blanket bog.
LOCATION
Aughoose, pipeline chainage 89.35 to 89.54
HABITATS /
CONSERVATIO
N STATUS
Recovering eroded blanket bog which is expected to return to, but has not yet
achieved, EU Annex I habitat quality.
This is not within any designated conservation site.
TIMESCALE/
TIMEFRAME
TECHNIQUE
Approximately 10 weeks to coincide with summer season

Supervision and Independent Verification
These works will be supervised by a suitably experienced and qualified geotechnical
engineer or geologist familiar with construction in peat. The role of the supervising
engineer is to ensure that the works have been carried out in accordance with the
specifications and standards as set out below. In this regard, the supervising engineer
will carry out an independent verification of the works (that is installation of reworked
peat layer) similar to a construction quality assurance (CQA) approach.
Specification, Installation, Supervision and Verification will be completed in accordance

with the following reports:
1. Reworked peat & mineral soil permeability research, AGEC, October 2009;
2. Report on Trial Trench and Impedance Layer (Chainage 89.350 to 89.540),
AGEC, May 2011.
Site Preparation
The 40m wide temporary working area will be set up as follows:
Install 3m high palisade security fencing mounted on bog mats.
In order to facilitate the construction of a 9m wide stone road the upper vegetation
layer of peat will be removed as turves.
The turves will measure approximately 2m x 1m x 0.5m and will be laid carefully on
bog mats in single layers within the temporary working area and stored for
reinstatement on completion of the works. The turves will be stored close together
to prevent drying of edges. They will be monitored during storage and irrigated as
required.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 2 of 8
Stone Road Construction

The process of installing the stone road will be a combination of excavation and
displacement of peat with stone. The depth of stone will vary depending on the
depth of the peat.
This area may need to be sheet piled prior to stone road construction to allow for
safe pipe laying activities.
Following removal of the turves, peat will be excavated to a nominal depth of 0.5m
from the base of the peat. Imported, single size stone will be pushed into this peat
layer to form a peat stone matrix.
Suitable peat excavated during stone road construction will be stored within the
temporary working area outside the 190m for future use in backfilling the pipe. The
specification and testing requirements to determine suitability of this peat will
conform with the recommendations outlined in the reports entitled 'Reworked peat
& mineral soil permeability research' (AGEC, October 2009), Report on Trial Trench
and Impedance Layer (Chainage 89.350 to 89.540), (AGEC, May 2011).
Additional peat for regulating the surface of the stone road prior to reinstatement
of the turves will also be stored outside of the 190m.
The remainder of the excavation will backfilled with a standard graded stone to a
level approximately 0.8m below the original surface level of the bog.
An additional bog mat access will be constructed adjacent to the stone road for
pipeline installation activities only.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 3 of 8
Pipeline installation
In this area, the trench excavation will go below the peat stone matrix in order to
get the required cover over the pipeline. This will involve excavation into mineral
soil.
String out pipeline and other services on bog mat road and prepare for laying.
Excavate trench and install pipe bedding.
Excavated material will be placed on the stone road to raise the level of the stone
road to that of the bog mat access, ensuring a level running track for operation of
side booms.
All mineral soil excavated during trench construction will be transported to a

licensed facility for disposal.
Install gas and service pipes, and surround services with suitable material (sand or
pea gravel) as per pipeline designers specification.
Roll out a geotextile layer over the level pea gravel. The width of the placed
geotextile filter membrane shall be of sufficient width to cover the trench base, side
walls and to allow a nominal 100mm lap above the interface of the peat and
mineral soil on both sides of the trench.
Place a 1000mm deep layer of suitable reworked peat over the geotextile as

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 4 of 8
follows:
o Suitable reworked peat will be placed into the trench using an excavator
bucket so as not to damage the geotextile filter membrane.
o Suitable reworked peat shall not be dropped from a height.
o Suitable reworked peat shall be placed uniformly into the trench to avoid
excessive dragging and to avoid spreading of peat over the geotextile.
o No compaction of the reworked peat layer is required other than light
pressing during placement using the back of an excavator bucket.
o Suitable reworked peat shall contain no large clods or other material
prohibited by the specifications (AGEC, 2009, and AGEC 2011).
o Testing of reworked peat is required; refer to Test Requirements and
Acceptable Limits for Reworked Peat Layer in Pipeline Trench, AGEC 2009,
and AGEC, 2011.
o During placement of reworked peat layer the trench shall be kept free of
water.
Place 300mm layer of clean stone immediately above reworked peat layer.
Backfill remainder of trench with trench arisings (that is stone road fill) stored on
stone road.
Reinstatement
It should be noted that reinstatement of this area will run concurrently with
reinstatement of the grassland area east of the Leenamore river crossing and will
proceed as follows:
Once the pipeline trench has been backfilled, remove the bog mats from beside the
stone road.
On reinstatement of this area, a regulation 100mm layer of peat will be spread
upon the stone road. The peat used for this process will be original peat excavated
from the area.
Stored turves will be packed firmly over the regulation layer and any gaps will be
hand-packed with peat scraw as the process is being done.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 5 of 8
Care will be taken to avoid compaction during reinstatement and the turves will be
reinstated to a slightly higher level than the surrounding bog in order to allow for
settlement post construction.
The reinstated turves are to be replaced carefully, under the supervision of the site
Environmental officer under the direction of the Project Ecologist.
Bog mats used for turve storage will be removed immediately after turve
reinstatement.
Monitoring, Testing & Reporting

Groundwater and peat water level monitoring will be completed in accordance with
Section 7.7 of AGEC, 2009, and in accordance with the Environmental Monitoring
Programme (SEPIL, 2011).
Independent on-site and laboratory testing will be completed on reworked peat
samples as per requirements of AGEC, 2009, and AGEC, 2011. Tests shall include:
o Moisture content (during storage and placement)
o Laboratory hydraulic conductivity (permeability), (during storage
and placement)
o Visual homogeneity
o Geotechnical engineering description (during storage and
placement)
o Peat thickness (during excavation)
The following reports will be prepared in accordance with Section 7.5 (7) of AGEC,
2009:
o Daily reports.
o Test Report (including field and laboratory testing).
o Validation Report Prior to Commissioning.
For further details of monitoring, testing and reporting reference should be made
to Environmental Monitoring Programme (SEPIL, 2011) and reports AGEC 2009
and AGEC 2011.

Method Statement
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 6 of 8
Side Booms.
Bulldozer.
Dump trucks.
Rubber tyred excavators.
Tracked Dumpers
Tracked Excavators
Articulated trench rollers.
6 inch water pumps
Turving Bucket
Working in an area of recovering eroded blanket bog which will be treated as
though it were EU Annex I blanket bog habitat.
Working in close proximity to, and upslope of, the Glenamoy Bog Complex cSAC
and Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven pSPA, and the Leenamore River.
No vehicle movements will be permitted outside the fenced working area.
Normal construction work will be restricted to between 07:00 and 19:00 weekdays

Environmental Management PLan
Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Damage to recovering
eroded blanket bog
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
MITIGATION
Loss of typical blanket

bog species due to
compaction of roots of
vegetation, surface
damage and water
logging from
compaction
Hydrological changes
caused by pipeline
acting as a drain
Interference with the

chemical balance
caused by nonchemically compatible
materials such as stone

Page 7 of 8
The temporary working area width will be approximately 40m to allow

sufficient spacing for storage of turves.
No vehicle movements will be permitted outside the fenced working area.
The stone road will be limited to a width of 9m to minimise impact on peat
land.
A specially designed excavator bucket will be used to lift and place turves
carefully onto wooden bog mats so that the turves do not break up. These
mats will be located alongside the stone road within the temporary
working area.
Turves will be stored in a single layer on bog mats, stored close together to
prevent drying of edges, and will be monitored and irrigated as required
until reinstatement.
Stored turves will then be put back to cover the reinstated peat layer on
top of the stone road. Care will be taken to avoid compaction during
reinstatement.
There will be minimum delay between construction and reinstatement of
this section and every effort will be made to minimise the duration of
disturbance in this area.
Reduce vehicle movement to a minimum.
Temporary working area is fenced to prevent encroachment and damage
to the recovering blanket bog outside the working width.
Low ground pressure vehicles will be used for traversing peat prior to
construction of the stone road. No tracking outside the working area
during the set out phase.
Only essential vehicles will be used in this section.
Bog mat access road will only be in position for duration of pipe stringing
and preparation works, they will be removed as soon as the pipes and
services are backfilled.
Placement of reworked peat impedance layer. Works to be completed in
accordance with the following reports:
1. Reworked peat & mineral soil permeability research, AGEC, October
2009;
2. Report on Trial Trench and Impedance Layer (Chainage 89.350 to
89.540), AGEC, May 2011.
Peat plugs will be placed at approximately 50m intervals to prevent the
road acting as a preferential drainage channel.
Raised contoured turve ridges will also be placed at 50m intervals to
deflect surface water runoff.
The stone for constructing the stone road will be locally sourced and
carefully selected to ensure that it is appropriate for the local environment
within the peat.

Environmental Management PLan
Method Statement
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
and aquatic habitats
and equipment
could have negative
impact on riparian and
intertidal habitats and
species
Noise, Vibration,
Lighting - Disturbance
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 8 of 8
MITIGATION
Machinery and plant will be inspected for potential leaks prior to being
used in this area.
Surface Water Control measures will be put in place prior to

commencement of construction works.
Silt control barriers will be installed along the boundary fence as required
to control sediment run-off.

Proactive maintenance of machinery to minimise noise and vibration.
Acoustic screening & fencing to minimise noise.
Site and mobile lighting will be designed to to limit light spillage.
may affect wildlife
(otters and badgers)
the locality
Damage during and
after reinstatement
works
Egress points will be placed at intervals along the trench line to allow
wildlife means of escape should they enter the trench.
Mammal gates will be provided at the base of the fencing at 75m intervals
to allow otters and badgers free access across and a means of escape from
the temporary working area.
ensure that no ground nesting birds are present on lands to be disturbed
Stored turves will be packed firmly over a regulation peat layer on top of
the stone road. Gaps will be hand packed.
Care will be taken to avoid compaction of turves during reinstatement and
the turves will be reinstated to a slightly higher level than the surrounding
bog in order to allow for settlement post construction.
A stock-proof fence will be maintained to protect the reinstated section.

A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all peat excavation

activities.
Onshore Works Aughoose to Bellanaboy
Construction in Forested Area

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 1 of 6
SUMMARY
This method statement describes the construction of the Corrib Onshore Pipeline in a stone road through
a forested peatland area. A pipeline trench will be excavated, the pipe installed, trench backfilled and the
area reinstated.
PURPOSE
This method statement outlines the general methodology for

construction of the Corrib Onshore Pipeline within a stone road through
a forested peat area.
LOCATION
Pipeline Chainage 89.54 to 91.42.

This section of the route runs south east crossing commercially forested
land before changing direction where it crosses a road at Chainage
90.137. There is also a small stream crossing in this area at Chainage
90.15. It changes direction again to run south to south west falling
towards a small valley and stream crossing at 90.72 and rising again
towards the Terminal site.
HABITATS/CONSERVATION
STATUS
TIMESCALE/TIMEFRAME
Habitats comprise commercial forestry plantation and are not within any
designated conservation area.
Approximately 6 months with stream crossings, to occur during a dry
weather period.
TECHNIQUE
Site Preparation
The 40m wide temporary working area will be fenced off with 3m high
palisade fencing mounted on bog mats.
Any necessary tree felling will be carried out under licence and in
consultation with the Project Ecologist during the winter season.
Areas of dense vegetation, including conifer plantations, affected by the
development will be monitored by faunal experts during vegetation
clearance.
Conifer trees will be felled and cut to ground level throughout the
working width, leaving roots intact, except along the route of the
pipeline trench, where trees including roots will be completely
removed.
Pipeline Construction
The pipeline will be constructed using the stone road method. At the
western edge of the section (from chainage 89.54) washed stone will be
used in a 10m buffer zone (to protect the recovering eroded blanket bog
to the west of chainage 89.54)
Peat will be excavated to approximately 0.5m from the base of the peat
and the excavation backfilled with stone to form a peat stone matrix.
The process of installing the stone road will be a combination of
excavation and displacement of peat with stone. The depth of placed
stone will vary depending on the depth of the peat.
The top surface of peat including the vegetation will be removed by
excavator and kept separate from peat excavated from lower layers.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 2 of 6
This material will be retained within the TWA and used during
reinstatement.
Stockpiled peat will be stored away from the point of excavation.
Once the stone road is in place, a trench will be excavated in the stone
road, within which the onshore pipeline and services will be laid (1m
separation between the gas pipe and the services). The trench will then
be backfilled using pipe bedding material and the excavated stone.
Stream Crossing (Chainage 90.15)
Stream crossing will be completed in dry weather conditions.

Sufficiently sized flume pipes will be placed within the stream and
overlaid with a geotextile membrane.
A stone haul road is constructed on top of the flume pipes to allow
construction traffic to cross the stream and from which the pipeline
trench will be excavated.
A dam will then be formed using impermeable clay and a sufficient
number of pumps will be set up. These will over pump any build-up of
water from the upstream side of the stream into its natural course on
the downstream side.
The trench will be excavated to the required level, with the trench
widened at each end to allow welders to connect the pipe under the
stream to the main pipeline. Sheet piles will be installed where
necessary and imported sand will be used to bed the pipe if conditions
so require. The trench will be kept dry by means of water pumps set up
at a sump box in the low point of the trench. The water will be pumped
into suitable fitration/settlement equipment prior to discharge into the
existing stream. The pipe section, having been strung / welded will then
be laid. The pipelines services and outfall pipe will also be installed at
this stage.
Backfilling of the trench in compacted layers will take place using the
excavated material where possible. Suitable selected fill will be placed
over the top of the pipeline before placing precast concrete slab across
the full width of the stream. The minimum cover over the pipe will be
1.6m at the stream crossings.
Temporary Compound (approx. Chainage 89.85)
A temporary construction compound approximately 80m x 50m will be

fenced off by means of 3m high palisade fencing. This compound will be
located to the south of the pipeline.
Any topsoil will be stripped and stored in a designated location within
the compound.
This compound will facilitate waste storage and contain office and
welfare facilities and may be used as a temporary storage area.
Road Crossing (Chainage 90.14)

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 3 of 6
There is a road crossing, which will be constructed using standard opencut techniques.
Liaison with Mayo County Council regarding existing services will take
place and a road opening licence will be obtained prior to construction.
Traffic control measures in accordance with Chapter 8 of the Dept. of
Transport Traffic Signs Manual will be put in place prior to excavation
works and a Traffic Management Plan will be in operation during the
works.
A trench will be excavated across the road and pipe sleeves installed
and the trench backfilled. The sleeves will be installed with a minimum
depth of cover of 1.6m.
A minimum clearance of 300mm will be maintained between the
onshore pipeline and any existing services.
Impact protection in the form of pre cast concrete slabs will be placed
over the sleeves where they are located under the road.
Road surfaces will be returned to a standard equal to or better than that
prior to construction of the pipeline.
The pipeline and ancillary services will then be pulled through the
sleeves during pipeline installation.
Reinstatement
Any pre existing land drains will be repaired and recorded on the asbuilt survey.
The reinstatement will take place using suitable Low Ground Pressure
(LGP) plant.
Any remaining roots, branches, etc will be gathered and removed offsite for later disposal.
A regulation peat layer of approximately 0.1m will be placed over the
stone road.
The top layer of peat with remnant vegetation will then be replaced in
preparation for landscaping and habitat creation.
Upon completion of instream work, the streams will be restored to their
original configuration and stabilised to prevent bank erosion by means
of geotextiles as required.

Method Statement
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 4 of 6
Tracked Excavators
Rollers
Tracked Dumpers
Articulated Dump truck
Low Ground Pressure (LGP) tracked excavators
Side booms
Marookas
Area to the north of the L1202 is upslope of the Glenamoy Bog

Complex cSAC and Blacksod / Broadhaven Bay pSPA.
All watercourse crossings (streams and drains) in the catchment of

designated conservation sites, i.e. cSAC & pSPA to the north.
Normal construction work will be carried out between 07:00 and

19:00
Restrictions will apply in the event of encountering a badger sett

and otter holts along or in the vicinity of the pipeline route. In this
case the mitigation measures outline in EIS appendix J1, Tables 11a
and 11b will be followed.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Construction in Forested area

Page 5 of 6
POTENTIALMITIGATION
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Construction Works
negatively impacting Weather forecast to be observed before commencement of stream crossing
local environment
Noise , Vibraion, Noise and vibration will be minimised through design, and appropriate
Lighting Disturbanceselection of plant and equipment.
Proactive maintenance of plant and machinery will be carried out.
Mobile lighting will be designed to limit light spillage.
Construction
activities may have Pre-construction surveys for otters and badgers will be undertaken within 1-3
negative impact onmonths prior to construction. The areas to be included are approximately; 50local wildlife (non-100m either side of the centre line of the pipeline for otters, and 30m either
avian and avian)side of the centre line for badgers.
Areas of dense vegetation will be monitored by faunal experts during
vegetation clearance.
During construction, ramps will be provided at open trenches to provide a
means of escape for otters and badgers and other wildlife to escape.
Preconstruction fauna surveys, including for frogs, will be undertaken prior to
construction. Any adult frog, spawn and /or tadpoles present will be
translocated under the licence prior to and, if necessary, during construction.
Mammal gates will be provided at the base of the fencing at 75m intervals to
allow otters and badgers free access across and a means of escape from the
A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in order to ensure
that no ground nesting birded are present on lands to be disturbed.
Release of suspended Containment, settlement and /or filtration methods will be used where
solids from the worksnecessary and will put in place prior to commencement of preparation works.
could have negative Once the stream flow is isolated, stream bed excavation works can commence.
impact on streamOperation of machinery within the inlet and use of machinery in the
flora and fauna.immediate vicinity of any stream will be kept to a minimum to avoid any
Potential forunnecessary disturbance.
suspended solids to Disturbance of bankside soils and instream sediments will be kept to the
enter drainageminimum required for the pipe laying process to avoid unnecessary impact on
network/streamsthe stream habitat.
which drain towards If pumps are utilised, care will be taken to screen pump inflows to protect fish
Sruwaddacon Bay
and to ensure that the watercourse upstream of the barriers is not pumped
which could have an
dry.
impact on salmonids, Splash plates will be placed at the outflow of pumps to ensure that scouring
frog breeding sites
and suspension of fine sediments does not take place.
and otters.
Locally sourced quarry stone will be used. Washed stone will be used adjacent
to streams (approximately 10m each side).
Upon completion of the instream work, the stream will be restored to its
original configuration and stabilised to prevent bank erosion by means of
geotextiles as required.

Method Statement
Title:
Document No:
Revision: 01
Construction in Forested area

Page 6 of 6
POTENTIALMITIGATION
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
The loss of habitat as Any required tree felling will be carried out under licence and outside the bird
a result of tree fellingnesting season. In the unlikely event that any tree felling is required at any
and clearing of densetime during the bird nesting season, such trees to be inspected by suitably
vegetation has thequalified ecologist in advance.
potential to have The edges of the temporary working area will be replanted with the
negative impact onappropriate tree and shrub species during reinstatement. The top surface of
fauna.peat including the vegetation will be removed by excavator and stored
separately from peat excavated from lower layers. This material will be
retained and used as a top layer during reinstatement.
Pollution of Machinery and plant will be inspected for potential leaks prior to being
terrestrial / aquatictransported to site.
habitat / species due Refuelling of plant/machinery will only take place in designated areas.
to spillage or leaks of Machinery not permitted in stream.
oil/diesel from plant Spill kits will be available on site.
and equipment.
Change in local As the stone road is constructed, peat plugs will be placed at approximately
hydrology/hydro-50m intervals as required to prevent the road acting as a preferential drainage
geological regimes.channel.
The stone for constructing the stone road will be locally sourced and carefully
selected to ensure that it is appropriate for the local environment within the
peat. Where possible, tunnel arisings will also be used in combination with
quarry stone for the construction of the stone road.
Earthworks may A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all peat excavation
disturbactivities.
archaeological
remains.

Onshore Works Onshore Pipeline Termination Point

Terminal Tiein and Surface Water Management
within the Carrowmore Lake Catchment Area.
Shell E & P Ireland Ltd.
Title:

Method Statement
Document No:
Revision: 01
Terminal tiein & Surface Water Management

Within Carrowmore Lake Catchment
Page 1 of 5
SUMMARY
The works outlined here cover the excavation and installation of the onshore pipeline within the Terminal
and all associated diversion of services, surface water management, concrete works, gas pipeline and
ancillary services installation as well as painting, testing and reinstatement works.
PURPOSE This methodology describes the works associated with tie in of the onshore
pipeline into the Bellanaboy Gas Terminal and the associated diversion of surface
water into the Leenamore Catchment.
LOCATION
North Western corner of the Terminal. Pipeline chainage 91.42 to 91.72.
TIMESCALE
TECHNIQUE
Approximately 6 Months
Site Preparation
A number of existing services within the Terminal will have to be diverted to
facilitate pipeline installation including; surface water drainage, groundwater
drainage, security fence and associated lighting, road drainage system and road
lighting. The sequence is as follows:
At the tiein location, remove gabion baskets, strip topsoil, demolish
concrete channel at the bottom of the embankment and strip off surface
gravel and weed blanket.
Excavate existing buried cables and divert south of the pig receiver (point
where onshore pipeline ties into terminal structure).
Insert water stoppers in both the surface water and ground water systems
and set up overpumping system south of the pig receiver.
Remove light poles and associated cable junction boxes.
Fence off a temporary working area inside the Terminal to facilitate
pipeline activities.
Dismantle both existing security fences inside the temporary working
area.
Saw cut bituminous road layers, excavate and remove to a recycling
facility.
Demolish concrete open channels and remove to a licensed recycling
facility.
Pipeline Installation
Pipeline installation within the Terminal consists of standard welding and pipe
trenching procedures used elsewhere on the onshore pipeline in addition to
anchor block construction, valve pit construction and overground pipe work
painting. The sequence is as follows:
Excavate pipeline trench from pig receiver to the anchor block location.
Excavate anchor block location and prepare surface for steel fixing by
placing blinding layer of concrete. This will also control surface water
within the anchor block excavation.
Install steel reinforcement, erect temporary timber shuttering and pour
concrete base.
Remove timber shuttering and backfill foundation base up to underside of
the pipeline.
While the anchor block is being constructed the existing surface water and
groundwater drainage pipes will be removed from the pipeline route.
The pipeline and associated ancillary services will be strung out and
Title:

Method Statement
Document No:
Revision: 01

Page 2 of 5
welded/jointed and prepared for laying.

The remainder of the pipeline trench will then be excavated and prepared.
The pipeline and ancillaries will then be laid, inspected and backfilled with
suitable material.
The remainder of the trench will be backfilled with the original excavated
material.
The surface water and ground water pipes will be relaid during the
pipeline backfilling. These pipelines will be retested prior to allowing them
return to normal operation.
Once the pipeline has been backfilled, the pipeline section situated over
ground will be sand blasted and painted for corrosion protection. This may
require the erection of a weather proof shelter.
Surface Water Management
Surface water from pipeline construction works that lie within the Carrowmore
Lake catchment (ch 91.42 to 91.72) will be collected, attenuated and taken
through a settlement tank or treatment/filtration unit before being discharged
into the Leenamore River catchment (north of ch 91.42).
The anchor block and pipeline excavations will be dewatered by pumping surface
water to a drain running parallel to the existing stone road. This drain will convey
surface water to a settlement tank/treatment unit located upstream of the
discharge point into the Leenamore River.
It should be noted that water collected in the Terminal drainage systems will be
kept separate from any water collecting in the pipeline excavations..
Reinstatement
Pipeline reinstatement has two distinct operations; reinstating the Terminal inside
the permanent security fencing (ch. 91.6791.72), and reinstatement of the
onshore pipeline temporary working area (ch. 91.42 to 91.67). It should be noted
that reinstatement of ch 91.67 to 91.42 is seasonal and will be incorporated
during the landscaping/reinstatement of the entire Terminal temporary facilities.
Chainage 91.67 91.72 will be reinstated as follows:
Construct concrete open channels, reinstate gravel area between road
and pig receiver and reinstall bituminous road layers.
Reinstall inner security fences including reinstatement of weed control
blanket and gravel between the fences.
Reinstate light poles and previously diverted underground cables.
Reinstate gravel inside the Terminal and remove temporary fencing.
Reconstruct drainage channel at bottom of embankment batter.
Reinstate topsoil on batter and seed as required.
Reinstall gabion baskets.
Title:

Method Statement
Document No:
Revision: 01
EQUIPMENT
RESTRICTIONS
Minidigger
Front Tipping Dumpers
Articulated Dump trucks
Road saw
Consaw
Wheeled Excavator
Sand blaster
Side booms

Page 3 of 5
Roller
Vibrating compactor (whackers)
Tracked Excavator (14t46 ton)
Concrete pump
Concrete poker
Cranes (50100ton)
Paint Sprayer
Welding units
Surface water from pipeline construction works that lie within the
Carrowmore Lake catchment (ch 91.42 to 91.72) shall be collected, attenuated
and taken through settlement/treatment units before being discharged into
the Leenamore River Catchment (north of ch 91.42).
Normal construction work is restricted to between 07:00 and 19:00 weekdays

Title:

Method Statement
Document No:
Revision: 01
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT
Noise &of
Release
Light
pipeline
Disturbance.
discharge
waters to
the Carrowmore Lake
Catchment could have
negative impact on
drinking water
quality.
Works may disturb
archaeological
remains.
may affect local otters
and badgers.
MITIGATION
may affect
amphibians
may affect nesting
birds
and aquatic habitats
due spillage or leaks
of oil/diesel from
plant and equipment.
Terminal tiein & Surface Water Management Within

Carrowmore Lake Catchment
Page 54 of 5
All surface
Noise
and vibration
water from
willconstruction
be minimised
activities
throughwithin
design,
theand
Carrowmore
appropriateLake
selection of shall
Catchment
plant and
be collected,
machinery.attenuated & treated prior to discharge into
Proactive
the
Leenamore
maintenance
River Catchment.
of plant and equipment.
Noise
In
drain
willmitigation
be reduced
willbybeCladding
placed asofrequired
stationary
to machinery
reduce silt such
impact
as on
generators.waterways.
associated
Acoustic screening and fencing to minimise noise.
Mobile and site lighting will be designed to limit light spillage.
Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to ensure dust
levels due to construction activities are kept to a minimum.
Sand
blasting
of pipe work
will
out under
weather proof shelter.
A
licensed
archaeologist
will
be be
on carried
site to monitor
allaexcavations.
A preconstruction survey for otters and badgers will be undertaken within
13 months prior to construction. The areas to be included are
approximately; 50100m either side of the centre line of the pipeline for
otters, and 30m either side of the centre line for badgers.
Areas of dense vegetation affected by the development which could not be
thoroughly searched will require monitoring by appropriate experts during
vegetation clearance.
Excavations will allow otters and badgers a means of escape if they get into
the excavation. This will be achieved by placing access/egress planks and/or
soil ramps at necessary locations.
Work activities will be limited to between the hours of 07:00 and 19:00
weekdays and 07:00 and 16:00 Saturday.
Caps will be placed over all pipe ends at night.
Gaps will be left at the base of the fencing at 75m intervals to allow otters
and badgers free access and a means of escape across the temporary
working area.
Any frogs identified will be translocated under license to a suitable location.
Habitat reinstatement will recreate the former channel and drain systems
so that frogs may use these post construction.
Vegetation clearance will be undertaken outside the breeding bird season
i.e. March to August, where feasible.
Revegetation and planting of native scrub species will be completed during
reinstatement.

CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LVI, GLENGAD COMPOUNDS AND ACCESS ROAD CONSTRUCTION

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CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT LVI, GLENGAD COMPOUNDS AND ACCESS ROAD CONSTRUCTION

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CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Onshore Works Glengad

METHOD STATEMENT Rev 01

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI, Glengad Compounds and Access Road

Establishment of Glengad Compounds

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI, Glengad Compounds and Access Road

Earthworks and Civil Works

The piping, valves, structures, and chambers will be erected on the

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI, Glengad Compounds and Access Road

the relevant parties.

Cranes and lifting equipment

General working hours are restricted to between 07:00 19:00 weekdays

Excavated material may have to be screened for potential reuse.

See Tunnelling Operations and Reception Shaft Method Statements

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI , Glengad Compounds and Access Road

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION

Cladding of stationary machinery such as generators.

Increased dust levels

A 3m high nontransparent noise barrier will be installed in

Mobile and fixed site lighting will be designed to limit light

Roads/working area will be dampened down, as required to

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI , Glengad Compounds and Access Road

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION

LVI and Glengad Compounds

An earthen (sod) bank forms the cSAC boundary to the south of

Fencing will be put in place to protect the Annex 1 habitats

No seed will be imported in order to prevent the pollution of the

Following construction this topsoil will then be used on the areas

To aid topsoil stability and vegetation regeneration, an open

Surface drainage will be put in place at the time of reinstatement

Stone used will be locally sourced.

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI , Glengad Compounds and Access Road

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION

Prior to construction, the temporary working area will be mowed

A walkover survey will be undertaken prior to construction in

An exclusion zone will be defined above and behind the

Apart from specialists conducting monitoring, no personnel,

Soil stockpiles will be covered where necessary with a fine

Lighting in site compounds will be directed downwards and

Visual and acoustic screening will be placed on the palisade fence

Lighting will be directed downwards and be designed to minimise

Shell Exploration and Production Ireland Ltd.

LVI , Glengad Compounds and Access Road

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION

During construction ramps will be provided at open trenches to

Release of suspended solids

Visual impact from the LVI

Machinery and plant will be inspected prior to mobilisation to

Refuelling of plant/machinery will take place in designated areas

Spill kits will be available on site

A surface water management system will be utilised to ensure

Surface drainage will be put in place at the time of reinstatement

The LVI will be constructed in a dished area to reduce visual

A licensed archaeologist will be on site to monitor all excavations

CORRIB FIELD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

METHOD STATEMENT Rev 01