Strathrae Colliery had an existing coal discard dump which was in the process of being re-mined. The resultant coarse discard from this process required to be disposed of in a new discard dump. The discard was to be placed in the new discard dump at a rate of 30 000 tons per month. The total amount of discard that was anticipated was 500 000 tons with an additional 800 000 tons from future underground mining operations. Water control systems were also required to separate “clean” stormwater runoff and “dirty” water emanating from seepage and working face runoff flows. The new discard dump was located across the existing footprint with an extension onto the adjacent area to the west of the existing dump.

Envitech was appointed to carry out the required investigations, design of all works and supervision of the construction works. The key features of the project included:

Assessment of various layout options for the proposed new discard dump
Geotechnical investigation of the site
Design of the selected option in accordance with the relevant legislation, including, Government Notice R.287 and the Code of Practice for Mine Residue (SABS 0286:1998).
Produce pre-tender drawings and design report including a budget estimate for the construction works required
Produce the required tender documentation and drawings and assist with the tender process
Supervision of construction works