Basement Construction & Underpinning – Propping and Needling, Taunton

Site Location: Taunton, Somerset

A contractor delivering a complex basement construction and underpinning scheme within an existing structure required a robust temporary works solution to support a bay window and roof during excavation.

Because this was a listed building, SEL was required to work closely with the building contractor to ensure the integrity of the original design. SEL provided a bespoke propping and structural support arrangement, enabling the safe formation of a new basement level while maintaining stability of the retained building elements.

Using our Slimshore soldier system, the contractor was able to:

• Provide reliable temporary structural support to the existing bay window and roof
• Safely carry out underpinning works and deep basement excavation
• Achieve effective load transfer during removal and replacement of supporting ground
• Maintain stability within a constrained, existing building environment
• Progress the wider construction works without disruption to the project.

The solution was developed in close coordination with the contractor to address complex loading conditions, restricted access, and sequencing requirements.

This approach ensured a safe, compliant and efficient basement construction process, reducing risk to the existing structure while enabling timely delivery of the works.

How can we help?

If you'd like advice on temporary groundworks, bracing, or temporary works in general, just contact your nearest SEL depot and we'll be happy to help.