The Environmental team at J P Chick & Partners Ltd were appointed to conduct a technical review at a former brickworks in Leiston where the client intended to construct a mixed-use development. The review comprised analysis of several third-party reports which had previously been produced for the site, to determine whether further geo-environmental investigative measures would be needed ahead of a planning application.
Our research indicated that a further Stage I/ Tier II Ground Investigation would be required to better delineate contamination levels on site. This involved mechanical excavation of 40 no. trial pits to retrieve soil samples for chemical testing, as well as groundwater monitoring from existing boreholes. “Our results showed elevated levels of contamination in the form of cadmium, mercury, lead and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), as well as asbestos fibres,” explains Adam Steele, Associate at J P Chick & Partners Ltd. “Following an updated risk assessment, we knew that remediation measures would be necessary before the site would be safe for construction. However, with suitable preparation, this Brownfield site could be made suitable for much-needed development.”
The team are experienced in many different forms of contamination and were therefore able to produce a Stage II Options Appraisal and Remediation Strategy detailing the best methods to excavate and dispose of contamination hotspots and remove asbestos fragments from surface soils. With a thorough understanding of environmental regulatory processes, we also advised on the re-use of screened soils in compliance with the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste Code of Practice, as well as implementing cover systems in all amenity and garden land to ensure contamination levels on site would meet residential requirements.
