Ballough AGI Bypass

Our team carried out a site selection process for the new AGI and associated assessment of alternative routes for the bypass pipeline and other connecting pipelines. A total of thirteen sites were examined, followed by short-listing and final selection of the preferred site. 

Using GNI’s initial design concept, we developed a step-by-step construction process using a series of Engineering Line Diagrams. The final approach minimises the amount of degassing to atmosphere and ensures that there will be no interruption of gas supply during the works.  A total of nine hot tap operations will be required.

The final AGI design, which received planning approval in 2019, incorporates a raised platform to meet the requirements of the OPW and minimise the risk of flooding to the site.  Surface water management at the site will involve an attenuation feature which has potential to be enhanced with biodiversity features.

A range of protective measures and requirements for the development (and captured in the outline CEMP) have been recommended to ensure the protection standard measures for surface water management and Biodiversity. These include the undisturbed retention of a riparian zone with clearly demarcated silt-fence, 10 metres back from the Ballough River to minimise disturbance to banks and in-stream habitats, and a prohibition on the soil stockpiles beyond that. Furthermore, works in the area will be scheduled to coincide with dates that will be approved by IFI and/or other agencies