Key Aspects of Contaminated Land Assessment
There has been significant growth in population and in order to keep up with this increase, we’ve also seen an increase in industry to supply the larger population.
As land is scarce there has been a pressure for growth in development and the construction industry has had to look to use Brownfield or previously developed land, such as redundant industrial sites. This has a positive effect as it will help to convert these areas into suitable potential areas for housing, offices and new industries. The past industrial uses have sometimes carried out years of poor practice which has resulted in contamination of the environment and in addition some of these sites have been affected by illegal dumping. Therefore it is very important that developers understand ground conditions prior to commencement of redevelopment. It’s crucial to understand the consequences for future use of land and therefore it’s necessary to procure a contaminated land assessment.
There is a duty in law to remediate past contamination in a systematic manner prior to reuse. This can be achieved by the use of three phase process for contaminated land assessment.
The first phase is a contaminated land assessment survey. This phase includes desk study and walkover survey. It establishes the underlying geology and hydrology, examines the existing site neighbouring property uses and the sites historical uses, using maps and other desk based information. This detailed report should contain a record of the findings and provide a risk assessment and recommendations.
The second phase is contaminated land site assessment; it includes agreement of sampling, the protocols and objectives for detailed assessment. ,It’s necessary to examine the work to take place on the site, make laboratory analysis of sampling and then consider and report on the nature and distribution of contamination. The third phase is the contaminated land site remediation and management. This third phase includes provision of method statement, supervising the works on site, liason with the appropriate authorities and provision of expertise to carry our the works. Subsequent to these remediation works being carried out it is necessary to provide validation of the works(sometimes shown as phase 4.) Applying this approach one can recognise the probable risk attached to human health and to the future development due to the use of the contaminated land. This approach will help in eradicating the risk in a proper and systematic way. These services are easily assessable. These services can be purchased phase by phase separately or The costs vary depending upon the condition of the site, contaminents, building location, etc. Contaminated land assessment is a very important aspect to consider before starting any project. This three phased contaminated land assessment program is a very effective tool to ensure reuse of land is delivered in a safe and practical manner
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