TII Open Research Call 2023

Tender description

TII's Open Research Call for 2023 consists of the following projects: Lot 1 Abnormal Load Management in Ireland, Lot 2 Characterisation of Calp Limestone in Dublin City Centre Lot 3 Developing a Biodiversity Accounting Methodology for Use on Linear Infrastructure Projects in Ireland Lot 1: Abnormal Load Management in Ireland TII has a requirement to conduct a study of best practice in the management of abnormal loads on national road networks. The study shall reference international agencies in the Americas, Europe and Australasia to identify best practices in the management of abnormal loads. The goal is to determine the most appropriate national administrative structure and decision-making process, that streamlines the process and strikes a balance between (a) facilitating economic activity and (b) infrastructure protection, maintenance costs and carbon footprint. Lot 2: Characterisation of Calp Limestone in Dublin City Centre TII has a requirement to develop a geological and geotechnical model of the Calp Limestone within a defined area of Dublin city centre. Calp Limestone is of Carboniferous Age and forms the bedrock within Dublin city centre. Its characteristics are poorly understood due to the thick cover of boulder clay and lack of outcrop. To develop the geological and geotechnical model, use should be made of all the available data from the ground investigations carried out for all the proposed underground railway schemes including inspection of cores, together with GI data from other projects within the study area and supplementary non-invasive investigations such as geophysics, if deemed necessary. It is envisaged that the geological and geotechnical model of the Calp Limestone will comprise its composition, depth of weathering, structure (both local and regional trends) and strength. Any features such as deep weathering and fracture zones that could be deleterious to underground construction should be highlighted. Maps and sections of the Calp in the city centre shall be produced. Lot 3: Developing a Biodiversity Accounting Methodology for Use on Linear Infrastructure Projects in Ire TII has a requirement to carry out research and trials leading to the development of a Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) accounting methodology applicable to Irish biodiversity and to TII’s projects. It is intended that, ultimately, the findings and recommendations of the project will lead to the implementation of a methodology through a TII Standard for National Roads with overarching Technical Guidance applicable to all TII projects, including greenways, light rail, tolling schemes and motorway service areas.