Site Preliminaries (Leaving Cert Construction Studies): Revision Notes

Desk and Field Study

Before starting a building project, site preliminaries must be carried out. This involves planning, research, and preparing the site to ensure the build progresses smoothly. Research is carried out in two stages:

1. Desk Study – gathering recorded information about the site.
2. Field Study – physically inspecting the site. These stages complement each other and can be done at the same time.

Desk Study

A desk study collects information that has already been recorded about the site and surrounding area. It helps determine where, how, and at what cost the building can be constructed.

Sources of information include:

• Ordnance Survey maps – show infrastructure, topography, landmarks, and land use.
• Historical documents – evidence of past settlement (e.g. castles, ringforts) that may affect planning permission.
• Planning records – show past applications, acceptable building styles, exclusion zones, and sewage treatment systems in the area.
• Environmental and geological data – identify soil type, rock type, flooding risks, wind exposure, and foundation requirements.

Purpose:

• Identify any restrictions or challenges before construction begins.
• Avoid delays by knowing about protected sites, exclusion zones, or environmental hazards.
• Plan the most efficient construction method.

Field Study

A field study involves visiting and physically inspecting the site to confirm desk study findings or identify overlooked issues.

Key tasks:

• Walk the site to get a realistic view of the land.
• Identify vegetation or obstacles to be cleared.
• Take measurements and carry out site testing.
• Assess drainage, accessibility, and site layout. Local knowledge is also important—talking to local people can provide insights into:
• Drainage and foundations used locally.
• Past land uses (e.g. quarrying, landfill).
• Planning permission history.
• Historic or cultural features.