Rising groundwater levels in Birmingham and the engineering implications (SP92)

The water taken from the ground for Birmingham's water supply has decreased greatly due to changes in industrial practices. This well-illustrated report indicates the areas most likely to be affected by rising groundwater and explains the implications. The study leading to this publication sets out to establish present Birmingham groundwater levels, assess future rises, and evaluate the engineering implications on builidng fabric, structure foundations, basements, tunnels and underground services. The report assesses wider environmental impacts and considers options for mitigation of groundwater levels. It concludes by recommending control methods, monitoring and further data collection. Key words: ground engineering, water resources, ground investigation and characterisation, climate change.