G T Jones successfully delivered approx. 100m of block stone cascade and walling work to integrate new infrastructure into Cotswold landscape. In addition to this, our team also completed descaling and dentition works on sections of the works.
June 2026 we were proud to mark the successful completion of our works on the A417 Missing Link project with Kier in the Cotswolds – this was a major infrastructure scheme designed to improve one of the regions key transport routes, whilst enhancing safety, connectivity and the surrounding landscape.
This project involved the construction of more than 3 miles of new dual carriageway in Gloucestershire, representing a significant investment in the local transport network. Working alongside Kier and the wider project team, our role focused on specialist stonework as part of the landscaping and earthworks package.
One of the key elements delivered by our team was approximately 100 meters of block-stone cascade works across steep and challenging ground conditions. Working on this type of terrain requires careful planning, specialist equipment and a strong focus on safety. To access and operate effectively across the difficult ground, our team utilised a specialist spider excavator alongside a long reach excavator, allowing the works to be completed efficiently while minimising the risks associated with working on steep slopes. The combination of specialist machinery, experienced operators and our team’s knowledge of stonework enabled us to successfully deliver the cascade works to the required standards and within the demanding conditions of the site.
As well as the cascade works, we also supplied and installed approximately 600m² of locally sourced block-stone walling as part of the wider project. The use of locally sourced stone was an important part of the works, helping the new infrastructure sit naturally within its surroundings. The walling provides both a practical and visual function, supporting the wider landscape strategy and helping integrate the new road into the distinctive character of the Cotswolds.
Another significant element of our involvement was the completion of descaling and dentition works on sections of the Cotswolds limestone escarpment. These works were undertaken where fissures, voids and loose unstable material had been identified within existing rockface. The purpose of the works was to remediate and stabilise the affected areas, helping improve the long-term stability of the escarpment while maintaining an appropriate finish for the surrounding landscape.
The works included controlled descaling of the rock face, removing loose and unstable material where required. Given the steep and restricted nature of the sections of the escarpment, this work required specialist access arrangements and careful coordination. IRATA rope access operatives were utilised to safely access areas of the rock face that could not be reached using conventional methods.
Following the descaling works, identified fissures and voids were cleaned out and prepared ahead of remediation. The remediation works included the installation of C25 mass concrete plugs and backfill, along with Class 1 backfill, drainage medium and weepholes where required. These measures were designed to address the identified defects within the rock face and provide appropriate support and drainage as part of the wider stabilisation works. The works required close attention to the existing geology and the individual conditions encountered across the escarpment, with each area assessed and treated according to the requirements of the project.
An important part of the dentition work was ensuring that the finished areas remained sympathetic to the character of the existing escarpment. To achieve this, Cotswold limestone masonry facing was installed to the remained sections. This helped the completed works blend into the surrounding rock face and maintain the visual appearance of the wider Cotswold landscape.
Projects of this scale require careful consideration of both engineering requirements and the environment in which the infrastructure is being delivered. Our stonework formed an important part of that balance, combining robust construction with material and finishes appropriate to the surrounding landscape.
Delivering specialist stonework on steep ground presents several logistical and operational challenges. Access, machinery positioning, material handling and safe working practices all need to be carefully considered before and throughout the works. Our approach involved using the right specialist equipment for the conditions, supported by experienced personnel who understood the requirements of working within a challenging earthworks and infrastructure environment. The successful completion of the cascade works, and extensive stone walling demonstrates our ability to deliver specialist masonry and landscaping packages even where access and ground conditions present additional challenges.
