Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) across Norfolk, Suffolk, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire have adopted a Screening Assessment Form for land quality. The form can be submitted as a basic contamination assessment on certain small developments, which fulfils the requirements of the "Existing Use" section of the application form.
Our experienced, chartered professional can complete the form on your behalf and is covered by £1M Professional Indemnity insurance against a pollution claim.
Previously known as a Phase 1 desk study, a Tier 1 report is usually a pre-commencement condition. It uses historical mapping, searches and a site walkover to identify potential sources of contamination. If an exposure pathway connecting a source and receptor is also identified then this may require further investigation. If not, development may proceed without one.
A ground investigation is undertaken to confirm desk study findings and address any concerns the Environment Agency or local authority Environmental Protection team has regarding the site.
It involves intrusive works typically including boreholes or trial pits to retrieve soil samples for laboratory testing and the installation of monitoring wells for groundwater and gas monitoring. The Tier 2 report includes a generic quantitative risk assessment and, if required, recommendations for remediating and managing contamination risks.
If the Tier 2 ground investigation establishes a potentially complete SPR-linkage requiring remediation or protection measures then the Local Planning Authority (LPA) is likely to request a Remediation Strategy document.
In line with the Environment Agency guidance, Land Contamination Risk Management (LCRM, 2021), the document will include options appraisal, a remediation strategy and verification plan.
Verification of remediation will demonstrate to the LPA that the remediation strategy has been successully implemented and any remaining contaminated land conditions can be discharged.
Verification normally involves a combination of site inspections, sampling, testing and checking site records (e.g. disposal, imported soil, membrane installation, etc). The report will be LPA and NHBC compliant.
The ALC survey is undertaken in accordance with guidelines and criteria for grading the quality of agricultural land (MAFF, 1988).
It includes a review of existing investigation reports and site information, followed by a field survey to assess the soil types. For some sites, limited chemical laboratory testing may also be required. The report will include a plan and table showing the ALC grades across the site together with justification and any limiting factors.
A Waste Management Plan (WMP) may be required for construction and/or operational phases of the development.
A Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) was originally required by the SWMP Regulations 2008. Although the Regulations have since been withdrawn, the SWMP continues to be a requirement of some applications. The SWMP will describe how the contractor will manage wastes from demolition and construction to ensure it is recycled/recovered and does not end up in landfill.
The operational phase WMP will follow standard local authority waste and recycling guidance for developers. It ensures, for example, that there will be adequate bin capacity at the development and that the infrastructure is in place for storing and kerbside collection of mixed waste and dry recyclables.
A Piling Risk Assessment (also referred to as a Foundation Works Risk Assessment) ensures that the most appropriate piling technique is selected, primarily for the protection of groundwater within deep, confined, aquifer layers.
The PRA is also applicable to penetrating ground improvment methods, such as stone columns etc. It also considers risks to human health from exposure to soil contamination and ground gas release.
The PRA is prepared in line with guidance published by CIRIA and the Environment Agency.
The requirement for a CEMP will normally be secured by a pre-commencement condition, particularly if it is anticipated that a development will have an adverse impact on nearby sensitive properties and premises.
The CEMP will set the standards expected of contractors during construction for community engagement (including dealing with complaints), identification of the responsible person and how the site will operate in terms of noise/vibration, dust, air quality, waste management etc.
If development is proposed within the consultation distance of a major hazard installation (MHI), such as a high pressure gas pipeline or oil refinery, then the LPA will need to consult with the HSE.
In instances when the HSE 'Advises Against' development an MHI risk assessment can help planning consultants optimise site layout and remove the HSE objection.
An MHI risk assessment, previously known as PADHI assessment, is prepared using the HSE's land use planning methodology.