Open-Cut Drainage
Donegan Civil Engineering has the expertise to carry out open-cut pipeline works for a number of applications including drainage and rising mains.
A Leading North West Drainage Contractor
With over 25 years’ experience in deep trench excavation and utility installation, Donegan Civil Engineering is a trusted partner for open-cut drainage schemes across the North West and beyond.
We complete pipeline installation from 100mm up to 2400mm diameter, in trenches over 6m deep, using a combination of precision excavation, trench support systems, and reinstatement to adoptable standards.
Our services include:
Drainage Installation
Connections to live sewer networks with new sewer pipe and manhole construction
Trench Works
Trench works for electricity, telecoms and utility diversions
Pipe and Pumping Systems
Rising mains and pumped systems
All works are carried out with full compliance to CDM and utility provider standards, with our experienced teams managing constraints such as:
- Congested urban areas
- Traffic-sensitive routes
- Deep excavation and groundwater ingress
- Liaison with utility providers and asset owners
Take a look at our impressive case studies below, and contact our friendly team today to talk through our capabilities as a high quality installer of open cut trench systems for drainage.
Open-Cut Drainage Case Studies
Take a look at some of Donegan Civil Engineering’s latest projects to see the work we’ve done throughout the United Kingdom.
Ditton Road
Widnes
Open Cut Drainage
Heronbridge
Chester
Open Cut Drainage
Brooks Lane
Middlewich
Open Cut Drainage
Bridge Farm Pipebridge
Wilmslow
Open-cut Drainage
FAQs
When is an Open-Cut Method of Excavation Preferred over Trenchless Methods?
An open-cut method of excavation is typically used for large diameter drainage systems or when precise alignment and level control is required in the place of trenchless technology.
It’s also preferred where ground conditions, site constraints or utility layouts make trenchless installation and traditional methods impractical at ground level.
How does Donegan manage Open Cut Trench Excavation safely?
When creating open cut excavations, we use fully designed trench support systems — including shoring boxes and hydraulic bracing — and follow strict excavation procedures to ensure compliance with HSE and CDM requirements.
Our teams are experienced in creating open trench excavations to the required standard around existing services and in live carriageways.

Need Open-Cut Drainage Services?
Get in touch with us using the form or call us on 0161 495 7300