Lustre Consulting was instructed by Fernham Homes to undertake to undertake a contaminated land assessment, consisting of a Phase 1 Desk Study and Phase 2 Site Investigation, for the proposed redevelopment of Orwell Spike, located in West Malling, Kent. The site, previously used as agricultural land, presented a range of geo-environmental and geotechnical challenges that required careful assessment to ensure compliance with planning regulations and the safety of future residents.
The proposed development involved the construction of a luxurious residential housing scheme, comprising several dwellings with associated infrastructure, such as access roads and landscaped areas. Our work was essential in identifying potential contamination risks and assessing the site’s ground conditions to facilitate a safe and sustainable redevelopment.
The initial part of the contaminated land assessment involved a thorough review of historical land use, environmental records, and geological data. The study aimed to identify potential sources of land contamination and assess any environmental risks that could impact the development. Key findings from the desk study included:
To confirm and evaluate the land contamination risks identified during the Phase 1 Desk Study, we conducted a Phase 2 Site Investigation. This phase of the assessment involved:
The site investigation results revealed low levels of contamination that required minor ground remediation work. As part of the remediation strategy, measures such as clean soil cover systems for gardens and gas protection layers were recommended to ensure the site’s suitability for residential use.
In parallel with the environmental site assessment, a Geotechnical Investigation was carried out to evaluate the engineering properties of the site’s ground conditions. This included:
The land contamination assessments and geotechnical investigations conducted by Lustre Consulting played a critical role in the successful development of Orwell Spike. Our detailed reports provided Fernham Homes and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council with the necessary assurances that the site was safe, compliant, and suitable for development. Key outcomes included:
By addressing both environmental and geotechnical challenges, Lustre Consulting helped achieve a sustainable, and successful residential development at Orwell Spike.
For more information on how Lustre Consulting can support your project with environmental and geotechnical solutions, please contact us today.
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