Abstract

There is an increased need for submarine cable infrastructure across the world to serve the offshore wind power industry and the expansion of the submarine interconnectors and telecommunication networks. Cable landfall projects are complex as land, intertidal, nearshore, and offshore environments all coverage, creating an array of dynamic processes, constraints, hazards, and engineering challenges that an asset may face over its lifespan. Robust site characterisation and ground modelling is key for the success of these projects, to allow for the effective, safe, and economical site selection, design, installation, and operation of an asset. In order to accomplish this, the integration of engineering and geoscientific datasets, obtained through several data sources and survey techniques is required; as well as collaboration and integration between multiple technical disciplines. This paper lists the key stages, techniques, and sources available for obtaining the required data. We then consider how the data can be managed and integrated to obtain a holistic ground model for use in the design, construction, and operation of the asset. We discuss the value these models can provide throughout the lifecycle of landfall projects.