Geotechnical study in The Bañeza

In the municipality of La Bañeza, the dominant subsoil is represented by a significant presence of water bodies and deposits of fine sands and silts. These soils exhibit high permeability conditions due to the existence of extensive aquifers, which favours infiltration but requires detailed characterisation to identify areas with a possible presence of soft layers or saturated soils. For foundation support, it is advisable to avoid the most unstable sectors or where the groundwater table could affect bearing capacity, with specific improvement or underpinning solutions needed in the zones with the greatest silt thicknesses.

As regards seismicity, La Bañeza is located in an area with high seismic incidence, recording more than 150 events over 30 years and with a maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 4.7, which makes it necessary to consider earthquake-resistant criteria in the structural design of any project. Although the risk due to expansivity of clays is only secondary and localised, the most relevant geotechnical constraint in the area is undoubtedly the high level of seismic activity, which determines the need for a proper analysis and dimensioning of the foundation and the dynamic response of the ground.