The Self Build Self Help Site retaining wall
Click on the photos for a larger view

photo of retaining wall in preparation

Such a wall can be built in sections - each section is tied to the next by inserting expanding steel mesh between the block work and by overlapping the steel mesh fabric within the cavity.

photo of retaining wall in preparation

To the right can be seen steel pilings, driven in beforehand to retain the land during the build. Although the pilings can be removed afterwards, it is cheaper to leave then in.

photo of retaining wall in preparation

The steelwork ready in the next section. To the left can be seen the end of the land drain, ready to be attached in the next section.

photo of retaining wall in preparation

And don't forget scaffolding to finish the top of the wall and for rendering.