Contaminated land Liverpool: fast risk assessment reports

Planning support with contaminated land in Liverpool

Liverpool, with its rich industrial heritage, has its fair share of challenges with land contamination issues. From shipbuilding to heavy engineering, the city’s past industries have left behind a legacy of contamination in certain areas. However, Liverpool City Council is committed to managing these issues responsibly to ensure public safety and promote sustainable development.

This article explores the historical context of contamination in the city, the council’s approach to polluted land, and the correct processes to follow when repurposing these sites for future development.

The environmental impact of Liverpool’s industrial legacy

Liverpool’s growth during the Industrial Revolution and beyond was powered by industries like shipbuilding, manufacturing, and chemical processing. While these industries contributed significantly to the city’s economic development, they also resulted in areas of contaminated land, particularly around the docklands where heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and other pollutants from shipbuilding and cargo handling can be found. Parts of Bootle are contaminated with residues from manufacturing and chemical works, and solvents and chemicals are present in industrial areas of Speke and Garston.

These brownfield (previously developed) areas are now prime candidates for regeneration, but their history means careful planning and management are required.

The risks from disturbing contaminated land

Breaking ground on contaminated sites risks creating new pathways for pollutants to spread and affect people’s health, watercourses and the wider environment. Risks depend on the following three elements being present; however, without all three being evident, the threat is minimal.

1. The source of contamination.
2. A pathway: a route for the pollution to reach receptors.
3. A receptor: this may be the environment or people.

The legal framework

Legislation dealing with contaminated land is contained in Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This defines contaminated land as any site where substances in or under the ground present significant risks to health, property, or the environment.

Key principles include:

• Risk-based approach: an assessment is made on the likelihood of harm to people, ecosystems, or water supplies.
• `Polluter Pays’: the party responsible for the contamination is held accountable for its remediation, where possible.
• Development-led remediation: the planning system ensures that contaminated land is assessed and cleaned up as part of future development.

The National Planning Policy Framework

This states that planning policies should support the use of suitable brownfield land for development. According to Paragraph 197 of the National Planning Policy Framework, responsibility for the safe development of contaminated land lies with the developer, landowner, or both. Local authorities, like Liverpool City Council, have a statutory duty to inspect land and address contamination risks under this framework.

Liverpool City Council’s approach to contaminated land

Liverpool City Council takes a proactive, risk-based approach to contaminated land management, focusing on public health, environmental protection, and sustainable development. The council’s policy prioritises areas with the highest risks and it works collaboratively with developers and stakeholders on mitigating risk and managing contamination effectively.

Key aspects of the policy:

1. Identification and assessment.
   The council regularly reviews land across the city to identify sites with potential contamination. Priority is given to sites near sensitive places, such as residential areas, schools, or water sources.
2. Reusing brownfield land.
   Liverpool is committed to maximising the reuse of brownfield land; this approach reduces the need to develop greenfield land, preserving natural spaces while supporting urban growth. Examples include the regeneration of former docklands, such as Liverpool Waters, transforming industrial land into mixed-use developments, and projects in areas like Speke, where former industrial zones have been redeveloped for housing and business use.
3. Integration with Planning.
   The council ensures that contaminated land is addressed through the planning process. Developers must carry out detailed contamination assessments and remediation work before land can be reused for housing, commercial use, or other purposes.
4. Collaboration and public engagement.
   Liverpool City Council works closely with developers, environmental consultants, and the public to manage contaminated land transparently and effectively.

The Contaminated Land Risk Assessment

On sites with potential pollution issues, a contaminated land risk assessment must be carried out before planning consent will be granted. If contamination is confirmed, the report will detail the remediation work necessary to allow development to proceed. Contaminated land assessment services are generally carried out by geo-environmental consultants who operate according to the Environment Agency’s Land Contamination Risk Management guidelines.

Steps in a Contaminated Land Risk Assessment:

• Phase 1: Desk study. Consultants begin by reviewing historical maps, industrial records, and environmental data to identify potential contamination sources.
• Phase 2: Site investigation. Soil, groundwater, and gas samples are taken to confirm the presence and extent of contaminants. Ground investigations may involve digging trial pits to monitor conditions, and a conceptual site model will sometimes be used to help with the site assessment.
• Risk assessment. Using the collected data, consultants evaluate potential risks to human health, water sources, and ecosystems. This step helps determine the need for remediation.
• Remediation planning. If necessary, consultants use their technical expertise to develop a remediation strategy. This might involve removing contaminated soil and cleaning it off-site, treating water sources, or capping areas to prevent exposure.
• Validation and reporting. After remediation, consultants ensure the work meets regulatory standards and provide detailed reports to the relevant local authorities for approval.

Why reuse contaminated land?

Liverpool City Council recognises the importance of reusing contaminated land as part of its urban regeneration strategy. Key benefits include:

• Protecting greenfield sites: By focusing on brownfield redevelopment, Liverpool preserves natural spaces and supports biodiversity.
• Boosting urban growth: Reclaimed land provides opportunities for housing, business, and community spaces, helping the city grow sustainably.
• Environmental improvement: Cleaning up land contamination issues reduces pollution risks and enhances local ecosystems.

Future development in Liverpool

The council’s approach to land contamination issues aligns with its broader goals of promoting sustainable development and improving quality of life for residents. By addressing the challenges of its industrial past, the city is unlocking the potential of underutilised sites, creating opportunities for housing, commerce, and recreation.