What is a Contaminated Land Survey? Help with Pollution Issues

How to get planning support with a contaminated land site

A contaminated land survey is a risk assessment of soil, groundwater, and other environmental conditions on a specific site to identify potential risks posed by harmful substances. Contaminated land surveys play a critical role in protecting public health, the environment, and ensuring compliance with planning regulations.

Why are contaminated land surveys needed in the UK?

These surveys are particularly relevant in the UK due to the country’s industrial history; its legacy is that many brownfield sites are potentially polluted.  Factories, landfills, mines, and industrial plants often left harmful chemicals in the soil or groundwater. Over time, these substances can pose risks to people, property, and the wider environment.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) underscores the importance of addressing land contamination when developing or redeveloping sites. Developers must ensure that their projects do not increase pollution or risk to health. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 introduced the “polluter pays” principle, making those responsible for contamination liable for clean-up costs. However, when the original polluter cannot be identified, the responsibility may fall on the current landowner or developer.

For these reasons, contaminated land investigations are often required to support planning applications, especially for areas with a history of industrial activity. These surveys help identify and mitigate risks on potentially contaminated land or controlled waters, ensuring that development projects are safe for future uses.

Steps to take if a land contamination survey is required

1. Consult local planning requirements: If the survey is required to support an application for planning permission, check the local authority’s specific requirements. They may outline the level of assessment needed and any guidance documents to follow.
2. Engage an environmental consultant: Hiring a qualified environmental consultant is crucial for conducting the survey. Look for consultants with relevant certifications, experience in contaminated land assessments, and familiarity with local authority procedures.
3. Conduct a Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment: This initial stage involves a desk study and site walkover to gather information about the site’s history and identify potential contamination risks. The consultant will review historical maps, environmental records, and past land uses to develop a Conceptual Site Model (CSM).
4. Perform a Generic Quantitative Risk Assessment GQRA (site investigation) if needed. If the Phase 1 assessment identifies potential contamination, a more detailed investigation will follow. This intrusive site investigation involves testing of soil, water, and sometimes air to confirm the presence of contaminants and evaluate their extent and impact.
5. Prepare a contaminated land report: The findings from the contaminated land investigation are compiled into a detailed report. This document will be submitted to the local authority as part of an application for planning permission.

How an environmental consultant investigates potentially contaminated sites

Their work typically includes:

• Research and data collection: Reviewing historical records, previous environmental assessments, and site-specific information.
• Site walkovers: Inspecting the site to check ground conditions and identify visual signs of contamination, such as unusual soil conditions or chemical odours.
• Soil and water sampling: Using drilling rigs or other equipment to collect samples for laboratory analysis. This helps determine the type and concentration of contaminants present.
• Ground Gas Monitoring: Periodic visits to site to carry out monitoring of borehole installations, using specialist detectors to analyse ground gases like methane, carbon monoxide, oxygen, hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide.
• Risk assessment: Analysing the data to assess risks to human health, property, and the environment. This often involves creating or updating the CSM.
• Mitigation recommendations: Proposing measures to manage or remediate contamination if necessary.

How a contaminated land survey report will satisfy planning conditions

Local planning authorities require contaminated land surveys to ensure that new development projects are safe and do not exacerbate existing contamination. The survey report demonstrates compliance with planning policies by:

• Identifying contamination risks: Clearly outlining the nature and extent of contamination on the site.
• Assessing impacts: Providing a thorough evaluation of potential risks to people, buildings, and the wider environment.
• Recommending mitigation measures: Suggesting practical steps to remediate or manage contamination, such as soil removal, capping, or groundwater treatment.
• Demonstrating compliance: Showing that the proposed development will not increase pollution or health risks, in line with the NPPF, Environment Agency guidelines and local planning policies.

The contaminated land survey report

A comprehensive contaminated land report will include:

• A summary of findings: A clear explanation of the contamination identified, its sources, and its extent.
• A risk assessment: An evaluation of the risks to human health, property, and the environment.
• Recommendations: Detailed proposals for managing or remediating the contamination.
• A compliance statement: Confirmation that the report meets all relevant regulations and planning conditions.

Do you need a land contamination consultant?

When hiring a consultant, consider the following:

1. Qualifications and experience: Look for consultants with relevant certifications (e.g., Chartered Environmentalist or membership of professional bodies like CIWEM) and experience with similar projects.
2. Local knowledge: A consultant familiar with your area’s planning requirements and contamination history will be more effective.
3. Reputation: Check reviews, case studies, or references to ensure the consultant has a track record of delivering high-quality work.
4. Clear communication: The consultant should explain their findings and recommendations in a way that’s easy to understand and actionable.
5. Compliance expertise: Ensure they are up to date with UK regulations, including the Environmental Protection Act and NPPF guidelines.

By engaging the right consultant and following the required steps, contaminated land investigations can ensure that polluted land is dealt with correctly and that new future uses can be found for it.