The Manchester and Salford 3-D Superficial Deposits Model : a guide to the model and its applications

This report summarises the 3-D superficial geology beneath Manchester and Salford (including Trafford Park) and should be used in conjunction with the digital 3-D geological model supplied within the Subsurface Viewer (© Insight Geologische Softwaresysteme GmbH). The area is underlain by a complex sequence of superficial deposits comprising glacial, post-glacial and anthropogenic (man-made) material. For example, the area beneath Trafford Park is characterised by over 40 m of superficial material infilling an incised valley cut into the underlying bedrock. 3-D geological modelling in the shallow sub-surface provides a powerful tool for understanding and predicting potentially difficult engineering ground conditions and in Trafford Park, a powerful tool for assessing aquifer vulnerability and recharge to the underlying Sherwood Sandstone. The geological model shows the top, base and thickness for each natural and artificial deposit within the area. Each unit is coloured according to its lithological composition, lithostratigraphy, inferred permeability and engineering classification. 2-D synthetic cross-sections and 1-D synthetic predictive borehole logs can be generated from the model in any area. For example, a cross-section can be drawn along the route of an existing or proposed road or around a proposed development area. Synthetic borehole logs can be generated to predict potential ground conditions at a point location. The 3-D geological model of superficial deposits in the area is not intended as a replacement for any invasive site investigation. It provides an additional tool for the development of conceptual ground models for a range of users. The model provides a powerful means of assessing the nature of the ground, but with additional 3-D information, not previously available from any existing 2-D geological map. It provides essential applied geoscience information relevant to any requirement for information on ground conditions in the shallow sub-surface.