Waste Testing and Classification

Disposal of waste soils to landfill can represent an abnormal development cost, driving projects to become uneconomical if not properly quantified. We have practical experience in waste soil management, from small housing developments to multi-million pound commercial projects, and provide rapid and cost-saving advice on environmental permitting, landfill licensing, waste soil classification, management and disposal, Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC) testing, cost minimisation as well as innovative, sustainable alternatives to landfill.

Contaminated Land Assessments

We design and undertake contaminated land assessments that meet our client’s objectives and current guidance, including;

• Contamination risk assessments in support of relevant planning conditions, or for a new build structural warranty provider (such as LABC/NHBC/ Premier)

• Informing duty of care requirements;

• Assessing environmental liabilities associated with land assets;

• Human health, controlled waters and ground gas quantitative risk assessments;

• Site Assessment Reports (SAR) for water pipe selection in accordance with UKWIR guidance.

Phase 1 Desk (Desktop) Study Assessments 

A phase 1 desk study is a preliminary risk assessment of the potential for contamination to be present for a site. These are a fundamental part of contamination assessments and compile information from a site walkover and background information in relation to a site’s history and geological, hydrogeological, hydrological and environmental setting. 

These can be included as part of the site investigation process or completed as a standalone report.

Site (Intrusive) Investigation

We undertake Phase 2 site investigations to assess for contamination that may present a risk to human health, controlled waters or the environment, either in support of planning applications or to assess potential liabilities associated with land purchase.

We also undertake bespoke investigations and assessments for microbiological hazards (such as Anthrax), invasive species (Japanese Knotweed, Himalayam Balsam, Giant Hogweed), asbestos and radioactive surveys.

We provide a proactive and cost effective service, drawing on our wide experience in dealing with contamination legacy issues across the UK, to provide workable solutions to our clients. We will guide you through each phase of the project to assist in obtaining regulatory agreement for planning permission, or facilitating the development of your brownfield sites.

Remediation/ Verification

We have considerable experience in the appraisal and selection of appropriate remedial options to identify the most cost-effective remedial works for contaminated sites; and fulfil the requirements of regulators and other stakeholders.  We provide remedial method statements/ remediation strategies, technical supervision services, remediation contract procurement and management, as well as appropriate verification/validation documentation.

UKWIR Site Assessment Reports

We prepare Site Assessment Reports in accordance with UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR) guidance to determine the correct materials to be used for water supply pipes on sites. The assessments include an initial site assessment report, and where required, site investigation to collect samples for laboratory analysis to identify potential contaminants in the ground that may affect water quality. The reports are designed to assist in meeting the requirements of the different regional water authorities for water supply pipes on new developments.

Expert Witness

We provide ‘Expert Witness’ services, assisting with claim submissions and settlement of disputes, offering litigation support on a variety of ground related issues. We act as expert witness, reviewing and evaluating documents and formulating independent assessments.  Where there is a need to resolve disputes in court, we can provide oral evidence during legal proceedings.

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