Subsidence of buildings, the collapse of old mine workings, the movement of landslides, and other problems in the ground can affect us all, as householders and as users of our complex national infrastructure that is built on or in the ground.  David Shilston’s lecture will take a broad overview of these ground problems within the UK and internationally.  He will explore their causes and illustrate how engineering geological expertise can be used to eliminate or reduce their impacts.  Mindful of the current economic climate, he will suggest an answer to a topical question:  How should our approach to problems in the ground be changed or adapted in an age of austerity?

Speaker

David Shilston (GSL President & Atkins UK)

Biography

David Shilston has some 35 years’ experience of civil engineering and geological projects in the UK and many countries overseas.  Apart from his general working knowledge of civil engineering, geotechnics, geology and geomorphology, David has specific expertise in the assessment and management of geohazards, including landslides & erosion, collapsing ground, seismic hazards and  problems encountered during the construction and operation of projects.

David has undertaken due diligence assessments and appeared as an expert witness in construction disputes, including disputes concerning power stations (Java and Finland), an airbase (Bahrain), and highways in Trinidad and Africa.

David is the first engineering geologist to have been elected President of the Geological Society of London.