An Investigation of Instability in an Abandoned Brick Pit West Kempsey Geological Survey Report No GS 1974-142 May 1974

Abstract

The collapse of two sections of the abandoned brick pit near the Macleay District Hospital, West Kempsey, was caused by a reduced shearing resistance of the soil, clay and weathered claystone of the quarry walls. The reduced shear resistance was caused by poor drainage, a saturated quarry floor and exceedingly heavy rainfall. A number of recommendations to improve drainage, prevent absorption of water into potentially unstable areas and improve the shear resistance of the material have been made. The long term stability is most economically achieved by partially or wholly filling the brick pit.