Japanese Knotweed Excavation, Ardrossan
Case Study: Japanese Knotweed Excavation, Ardrossan
Location: Ardrossan, Firth of Clyde, North Ayrshire
Sector: Commercial – Brownfield Redevelopment Site
Invasive Weed Type: Japanese Knotweed
Season: Spring
Solution: Mechanical Excavation
Duration: 8 days (plus 1-day pre-assessment and 2-year monitoring programme)
Client Problem
A commercial client preparing a brownfield site in Ardrossan for redevelopment discovered a widespread infestation of Japanese Knotweed. The client needed a fast, effective, and fully compliant solution to remove the invasive plant and keep the project on schedule. Left untreated, the Japanese Knotweed posed serious risks to the site’s usability, legal compliance, and future development value.
Our Expert Solution
- Conducted a CSJK-certified site survey to map the full extent of Japanese Knotweed infestation across the 22.5 hectare (55 acre) site.
- Collected soil samples for laboratory analysis and landfill classification.
- Delivered a detailed excavation strategy, establishing safe working practices for all site operatives.
- Provided a Toolbox Talk to educate machine operators on safe weed removal and biosecurity procedures.
Implemented strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of invasive plant material. - Oversaw the excavation and removal of all Japanese Knotweed, including deep rhizome systems.
- All contaminated materials were securely transported to a licensed disposal site.
- Ensured all works complied with SEPA and PCA industry guidelines.
- Approved stockpile depth exceeded standard recommendations, agreed with client to prevent regrowth.
- Introduced a 2-year aftercare plan with annual site inspections to monitor for regrowth and provide peace of mind.
Site Challenges and Solutions Delivered
- Our team provided expert supervision on-site, ensuring the client’s plant operators carried out the excavation correctly and safely.
- A second site assessment was required following seasonal regrowth since the initial survey the previous autumn.
- Excavation was complicated by heavy rubble and historical site disturbance, with Japanese Knotweed rhizomes deeply embedded within.
- A Japanese Knotweed stockpile was created, exceeding the usual 500mm depth with client consent, to effectively contain all contaminated material and mitigate regrowth risk.
Client Feedback
The client praised JBB Knotweed Solutions for our professional approach, clear communication, and expert support throughout the project.
Our Toolbox Talks proved valuable in helping on-site teams understand the importance of biosecurity and safe excavation methods.
The customised excavation and monitoring plan allowed the redevelopment project to continue smoothly and safely.
Key Project Outcomes
- Full removal of Japanese Knotweed infestation
- Site cleared safely and professionally for redevelopment
- Return visit scheduled to inspect regrowth within construction rubble
- 2-year monitoring plan for continued control and peace of mind
- Positive feedback from a satisfied commercial client
Case Studies
Explore our case studies below to see how we assess, manage, and resolve invasive weed problems efficiently and professionally.
