Gabions have long become a method of construction for retaining structures, providing economical and environmentally acceptable solutions.

These structures are designed as Mass Gravity Gabion Retaining Walls, which are flexible structures. The design is based on the mass of the gabions providing stability to counteract the force of the ground’s load. The gabion baskets can be manufactured from either welded or woven mesh, dependent on the individual project requirements.

In the design of the retaining structure, the principles are the same for both woven and welded mesh gabions. Where walls are subject to possible settlement, woven mesh gabions have more flexibility and therefore may be better suited to these situations. Where a high quality of visual appearance is needed, welded mesh gabions are a better choice, providing the selection of mesh wire combinations is correct.

Mass Gravity Gabion Retaining Walls are typically inclined at 6° from the vertical for 2.7mm or 3mm wire diameters to improve the stability. However, 6° or 10° from the vertical can be designed for 3.8mm, 4mm or 5mm wire diameters. The width of each course reduces as the wall height increases. Gabion courses should not overhang greater than 150mm to the course below except where the structure has a stepped face.

Volume 1: Gabion Retaining Walls

This publication describes the types and specifications of gabion systems currently available from Enviromesh. Assembly and installation guidance is explained fully, along with the principals of the design methods and analysis in accordance with BS EN 1997-1:2004 & BS 8002:2015.