KEY PERSONNEL:
PROJECT CHALLENGES:
Remote isolation of research group for months; environmental sensitivity
Feasibility study into the siting of temporary buildings on remote South Atlantic island
Gough Island’s only human habitation is a small meteorological station operated by the South African government. It is a World Heritage Site for rare seabirds. Temporary structures were required as part of an RSPB programme to eradicate non-native mice which have been preying on the chicks of endangered species.
The feasibility study involved a desktop study of information and a site visit to carry out a full topographical survey and geotechnical investigation that would determine site levels, features and ground conditions for the foundations of temporary accommodation. The final site layout included at least ten new temporary buildings as well as a helipad and associated access paths. Phases were protracted, but specific, due to the infrequency of ship contact with Gough Island. Works were scheduled for a visit by contractors two years after the expedition.
