York students warned of temporary road closures as university begins geothermal survey

From Monday 27th October to Sunday 16th November, the University of York will carry out a seismic survey in Heslington and surrounding areas. The work is part of the Deep Geothermal Energy Project. The survey may cause temporary road closures, though the university says these will be brief and during off-peak hours.

The project, led with specialist partner Echo Geo Ltd, aims to create a 3D map of the ground beneath campus to identify the potential for a geothermal energy reservoir – a renewable heat source that could help York reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

The university described the survey as “a major step forward in reducing fossil fuel use, providing a secure energy source and achieving our Net Zero targets.”

During the survey, small sensors called nodes will be placed into the ground along survey lines to record sound waves produced by a seismic vibrator truck. The trucks generate short, low-impact vibrations that are roughly equivalent to a large tractor, and that last for around 16 seconds each time.

Residents and students may see sensors placed along roads and footpaths across the area. The university has emphasised that the equipment is safe and should not be disturbed. All sensors will be collected once the survey is complete.

Image of node via YouTube

Survey activity will take place across campus on Saturday 8th November, with the following roads affected: Campus East, Field Lane, Church Lane, Innovation Way, Low Lane, Common Lane, Long Lane and Langwith Stray. Survey activity will take place in other parts of Heslington, Osbaldwick, Murton Park and Derwenthorpe from Wednesday 5th November to Tuesday 11th November.

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Earlier this month, the university invited students to apply for paid support roles assisting Echo Geo with leaflet distribution and placing and collecting sensors. The positions offered £120 per day, with training provided and no prior experience required.

The Deep Geothermal Energy Project forms part of the university’s sustainability strategy to decarbonise operations and achieve Net Zero emissions.

For more information, students and residents can contact the Sustainability Team at [email protected] or visit york.ac.uk/about/sustainability.

Featured image via Google Maps