Applicants should note that the conditions offer a risk based approach.
If the first phase of work does not identify any significant contamination risks on or in the vicinity of the site, then no further works will be required.
However, if significant contamination is suspected, then further works will be required until it has been demonstrated that the site it suitable for its intended use.
Phase One: Desk Study Reviews
The first stage is to carry out what is commonly referred to as a “Phase one desk study review”, to identify whether there are any potential sources of contamination at the site or within close proximity to the site that could potentially cause harm to human health, property or pollution of the water environment or sensitive ecological receptors. This process is commonly referred to as developing a “conceptual site model” (CSM). The Phase One generally includes a review of current and historical maps and anecdotal evidence, detailed site walkover, review of geological and hydrogeological maps, consultations with regulators, etc. All reports must have a CSM and a preliminary risk assessment to determine whether it will be necessary to carry out Phase Two intrusive works. Further details are included in the SPG and Checklist 1 – Phase One: Desk Study Reviews|.
Phase Two: Intrusive Investigations
If the Phase One review indicates any potential contamination risks at the site, there will be a requirement to carry out further works, typically involving intrusive investigations (e.g. trial pits, boreholes, soil sampling and testing and gas and water sampling, testing and monitoring). These works should focus on identifying and quantifying any potential sources, pathways and receptors that were identified during the Phase One. Particular attention should be made to areas where potential receptors may come into contact with contamination e.g. garden/landscaped areas. Where unacceptable risks to humans, property or the wider environment are encountered, remedial works will be required. Further details are included in the SPG and Checklist 2 – Phase Two: Intrusive Investigations|.
Phase Three: Remedial Strategy
The remedial scheme must identify and break all unacceptable pollutant linkages. The scheme should clearly state how the works proposed will be validated in order to demonstrate to the Planning Authority that the site will be suitable for its intended use. The remediation scheme must be agreed with the appropriate regulators prior to works commencing. Further details are included in the SPG and Checklist 3 – Phase Three: Remedial Strategy|.
Phase Four: Validation Report
The validation report should demonstrate that the remedial works have been carried out and that the site is now suitable for its intended use. Where possible, the validation report should be submitted prior to any construction works taking place, unless the remedial works form part of the construction works e.g. the installation of gas proof membranes. Further details are included in the SPG and Checklist 4 – Phase Four: Validation Report|.
It’s the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that each stage has been agreed with the Contaminated Land Team and to ensure that all conditions are resolved timeously. It is recommended that the applicant uses the checklists| enclosed within the SPG and downloadable from this website to ensure that they have submitted all appropriate information in relation to contaminated land.
Falkirk Council cannot accept reports that do not meet with the criteria and minimum requirements of the SPG