Evaluate contaminated land issues: rapid survey reports
What is contaminated land?
Contaminated land refers to any area where the soil, groundwater, or air has been polluted by potentially hazardous substances, making it potentially unsafe for human habitation, agriculture, or environmental health. This contamination can occur due to past or present industrial activities, improper waste disposal, chemical spills, or naturally occurring substances that exceed safe levels.
Causes of contaminated land
- Industrial and commercial activities: manufacturing, mining, and fuel storage can introduce pollutants such as heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons and solvents.
- Waste disposal: poorly managed landfill sites, illegal dumping, and historical waste disposal practices can cause ground contamination.
- Agricultural practices: the excessive use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers can lead to pollution of soil and controlled waters.
- Accidental spills and leaks: leaks from underground storage tanks, pipeline ruptures, or transport accidents can introduce hazardous chemicals into the immediate environment.
- Natural sources: some areas naturally contain high levels of harmful elements like arsenic or radon.
Risks from contaminated land
Contaminated land can pose several risks to public health, the environment, and property values. Some of the key threats include:
- Health risks: exposure to toxic substances such as heavy metals, asbestos, hydrocarbons, and volatile organic compounds can lead to respiratory problems, cancers, and other serious health issues.
- Environmental harm: contaminants can seep into the ground, causing soil and groundwater contamination, potentially causing significant harm to local wildlife and ecosystems.
- Structural integrity issues: some contaminants can corrode building materials, affecting the stability of structures.
- Legal and financial liabilities: landowners and developers may face legal action and financial penalties if contamination issues are not addressed properly. Contaminated land can also lower property values.
What is a contaminated land survey?
A contaminated land survey (also known as a contaminated land risk assessment) is a structured process used to determine the potential hazards and risks associated with land that may be polluted with harmful substances.
This assessment is vital for developers, landowners, relevant planning authorities and regulatory bodies to ensure that land is safe for future users and that any risks to human health and the wider environment are appropriately managed.
A contaminated land survey will clarify any potential contamination issues on an individual site and should provide the relevant local authority with all the information it requires when it considers an application for planning consent.
When is a contaminated land survey needed?
There are several scenarios that require a contaminated land survey:
- Prior to land development: if a developer wants to build on contaminated land, or previously developed brownfield sites, obtaining planning consent requires demonstrating that any risks from contamination will be appropriately managed. A contaminated land survey will ensure it is safe for its proposed use and enable a developer to discharge planning conditions.
- Change of land use: if land use is changing (e.g., from industrial to residential), potential contamination must be assessed to ensure safety.
- Regulatory requirements: authorities may require a contaminated land assessment to comply with environmental regulations and for regulatory records.
- Property transactions: buyers and investors may require a contaminated land survey to identify potential hazards before purchasing land.
- Industrial sites and waste management areas: sites with a history of industrial use or waste disposal need contamination surveys to prevent pollution from spreading.
Land contamination surveys follow a structured approach:
Phase 1 desk study – preliminary risk assessment
Involving a review of historical land use to assess the likelihood of contamination from the site history. A conceptual site model may be created outlining potential sources, pathways, and receptors of contamination.
Phase 2 – site investigation
During an intrusive site investigation, environmental consultants will collect and analyse soil, water, and gas samples for laboratory analysis. The extent and type of contamination will be assessed during the site walkover survey to evaluate potential risks to human health and the wider environment.
Phase 3 – risk assessment and remediation strategy
If contamination is found, a risk assessment will be developed based on findings. Remediation measures might involve removing contaminated soil, capping affected areas, or treatment solutions. Reports will be submitted to the relevant authorities for regulatory approval.
Phase 4 – implementation and validation
Remediation solutions will be implemented. Post-remediation testing will be carried out, followed by further testing to confirm that remediation has successfully mitigated the risks. Final approval from environmental authorities will be obtained.
Who can carry out a Contaminated Land Survey?
A contaminated land assessment must be conducted by qualified professionals with expertise in environmental science, geology, or engineering. These professionals often work for specialist environmental consultancies and must be competent in conducting site investigations, risk analysis, and remediation planning according to the Environment Agency Land Contamination Risk Management guidelines.
Key professionals involved include:
- Geo-environmental consultants: experts who analyse contamination risks and propose mitigation strategies.
- Geo-technical engineers: specialists in soil and ground conditions who assess structural risks related to contamination.
- Regulatory authorities: local planning authorities and environmental agencies oversee and approve assessments in line with National Planning Policy Framework guidelines and the Environment Agency.
Take early action
Assessing and remediating land contamination is crucial for safe redevelopment and protection of the environment and human health. Identifying polluted land contamination early ensures that land can be safely developed for future users while complying with environmental regulations and planning policy.
Whether you are a developer considering a planning application, a property owner, or an investor, understanding the risks and engaging qualified professionals can help navigate the complexities of contaminated land management effectively. Arbtech’s specialist geo-environmental consultants have many years experience of contaminated land assessment work and can offer professional advice. For further information, fill in the quick contact form at the top of this page.