The geotechnical survey may be the first set of works carried out on a site, and often comes long before the detailed designs of a project. The impact of the geotechnical survey is therefore felt throughout the remainder of the project, and a good quality analysis carried out on schedule can be key to project success. Drawing on practical examples from recent case law and experience this presentation will review the role of geotechnical analysis, and provide a lawyer’s view as to how it fits into the overall risk allocation of the project.

Robin Wood is a solicitor advocate specialising in international arbitration in the Infrastructure, Construction and Energy sectors. Robin specialises in the resolution of complex multi-jurisdictional disputes across a range of sectors including financial services, oil and gas, energy, water, rail, infrastructure, healthcare, commercial property and waste management.

Robin also has experience of advising on non-contentious matters, including major rail, commercial property and energy projects, and was seconded to the in-house legal team at easyJet in 2013, where he gained a good understanding of the transport sector. After graduating with degrees in medicine and neuroscience from King's College London, Robin practiced medicine for a year before retraining as a solicitor.