Case Study: Gabion Retaining Wall (by Robert Marsden)

gabion-retaining-wall
  • Project: Gabion Retaining Wall
  • Client: Robert Marsden – Kitchens & Interiors
  • Construction: 13.04.2026

Project Background

Objective: To build a retaining structure to compensate for a height difference of approx 4Ft between my property and my neighbours – in order to allow me a firm, safe footpath to maintain/cut my hedge.

Location: This is in a rural location, on the side boundary of a 100 year old house – between a log store and boundary hedge which had become “sparse” due to a predominant holly tree which was blocking too much sunlight. (He also needed to reduce the holly tree).

Installation Process

Once the tree was reduced, a trench was dug out by hand, to suit the gabions. Then the gabions were assembled and installed with the spiral joint/connectors you supply (very useful). The pipe you can see is a plastic pipe conduit – used for an electric garden lighting cable – (subsequently hidden).

Inside the gabions, I made a sandstone rock face to present an “appropriate” view to my neighbours (lower) side…. and back filled with old bricks, blocks etc on my (blind) side.

brick-filled-gabions

When the gabions were (roughly) full of sandstone/brick/block, I used small stones and pebbles recovered from the soil I removed…. to make a path over the top….

gabion-path

After the gabions were full, the neighbours side (ie under the hedge) was “back-filled” with the soil from the “dig out”, and the hedge repaired/underplanted with hawthorn saplings in the sparse areas.

back-filled-gabions

Final Result

“I now have a solid footpath over the gabions, on my border – from which I can cut the 100 year old (repaired) hedge safely.” – Robert Marsden from Kitchens & Interiors

finished-retaining-wall

Ready to plan your own gabion installation? Contact us today for expert advice, quotes, and guidance to make your project a success.

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