Allan Block, Miller Homes, Areley Common, England, Colour: Abbey

Colinwell Helps Miller Homes Create More Buildable Land at Areley Common Site with Allan Block Segmental Retaining Wall System

Client: Miller Homes
Project: Areley Common Residential Development, England
Product Supplied: Allan Block Retaining Wall System
Area Supplied: C.400 m²

Challenge

At the Areley Common site, Miller Homes faced a familiar challenge: managing a steeply tiered landscape that sloped upwards from the entrance, continuing to bank over the hill. Miller Homes required a more cost-effective and efficient solution to traditional masonry retaining walls. They needed a system that was robust, aesthetically pleasing, and practical to install on a busy site.

Solution

Colinwell worked closely with Miller Homes from the earliest stages, offering expert consultation and a free site-specific Preliminary Design Service. This early engagement allowed our team to demonstrate how the Allan Block Retaining Wall System could outperform traditional masonry - on cost, speed of construction, long-term durability, and sustainability.

The Allan Block segmental retaining wall system’s unique design, featuring a front-lip setback and hollow-core blocks, simplified installation and made it the installer’s preferred method on site. The lightweight, dry-build nature of the product allowed for faster construction without compromising structural performance or visual appeal.

Results

• Efficient Construction: Faster build times compared to traditional methods.
• Cost Savings: Significant reduction in installation and material costs.
• Sustainable Choice: 65% recycled content supporting environmental targets.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Seamless project delivery supported by Colinwell’s in-house design and technical team.

"The Colinwell ‘Allan Block’ Retaining Wall System transformed our approach and dealt effectively and efficiently with the levels change on our ‘Areley Common’ Scheme. The site-specific preliminary design made a case early doors for the system’s cost effectiveness, durability and aesthetic, making it a clear choice away from our traditional method of masonry retaining.

The system’s unique front-lip setback and hollow-core blocks are the most important factor for the installers, making it a favourite for them to build - building the walls swiftly whilst secure. The sustainable 65% recycled content aligned perfectly with our eco-conscious goals.

The customer service from Tim & their in-house engineer Kate was nothing short of outstanding - responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely attentive. Their team provided a free, tailored Preliminary Design Service and prompt support, ensuring our project was a seamless success from start to finish. I’m very much looking forward to collaborating with Tim & the team on our next phase & upcoming schemes. I couldn’t recommend highly enough.”

Brad Wise, Senior Engineer – Miller Homes, West Midlands

To learn more about our Allan Block Segmental Retaining Wall System, visit https://www.colinwell.com/products/colinwell-allan-block-retaining-wall-systems or contact us today.