Phase 1 Desk Study that Gets Planning Approval

Why Is A Phase 1 Desk Study Essential?

A Phase 1 Desk Study is the crucial first step in a phased contaminated land assessment, often required by local planning authorities to support planning applications, remove objections, or discharge planning conditions.

Whether for minor building extensions or large-scale strategic housing developments, a Phase 1 Desk Study provides essential information about potential contamination risks.

Beyond supporting the planning process, Phase 1 Desk Studies are also required to:

• Satisfy NHBC land quality conditions (or any other warranty provider requirements).
• Provide financial security for banks and mortgage lenders.
• Offer legal security for solicitors involved in conveyancing during land purchases.
• Support Environmental Due Diligence audits for corporate compliance.
• Inform Environmental Statements within an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

A Phase 1 Desk Study is arguably the most critical part of a contaminated land assessment, as it determines whether further site investigations or costly remedial actions will be required. By identifying potential issues early, it helps avoid expensive delays and ensures compliance with planning and environmental regulations.

How is a Phase 1 Desk Carried Out?

In order to meet your needs and ensure you remain compliant, all our Phase 1 Desk Studies are carried out in accordance with current guidance such as the recommended approach set out in the Environment Agency’s Model Procedures for Land Contamination Risk Management (LCRM) including:

• A site walkover to assess the current condition of the land. During this visit, our contaminated land consultants will assess the site condition by taking photographs of the site, and interview individuals who are most familiar with the site’s history and operations. This is a key step to identify any potential contamination sources or risks that may not be visible in public records.
• Historical review of OS Maps and Aerial Photographs dating back to the mid-1800s, alongside available site plans and aerial photographs, to identify any past land uses that may have contributed to contamination. This step provides crucial insights into industrial activity, waste disposal, or changes in land use over time.
• Identification of pollution incidents and landfill sites using publicly available data, we identify known pollution incidents, landfill sites, and discharge consents in the area. This helps in assessing the potential for contamination from nearby sources that could impact your site. We also review environmental data sets, including information from regulatory bodies and other reputable sources.
• Review of the environmental setting by conducting a thorough analysis of the geology, hydrogeology, and hydrology of the site and its surroundings. Understanding the physical characteristics of the land, including soil composition and groundwater flow, is essential for assessing how contamination could spread and the potential impact on sensitive receptors, such as nearby watercourses or residential areas.
• Development of a conceptual site model based on our findings, which illustrates the relationships between contamination sources, potential pathways, and sensitive receptors. This is accompanied by a qualitative risk assessment to evaluate the likelihood and severity of contamination risks, ensuring a clear understanding of any hazards present.
• Comprehensive report for submission to local planning authorities, which includes all findings, a robust risk assessment, and our professional recommendations to help you move forward with your development project confidently.

Our Phase 1 Desk Studies are known for their high-quality results, regularly receive positive feedback from clients and planning regulators such as local environmental health officers We take pride in delivering clear, concise reports with comprehensive conceptual site models and risk assessments that not only meet but exceed the expectations of local authorities.

Frequently asked Questions about Phase 1 Desk Studies

Do I need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

If your planning permission has any attached conditions, they may include requirements for a Contaminated Land Assessment or a Phase 1 Desk Study. These terms are often used interchangeably for the same type of report. A Phase 1 Desk Study is usually required by local planning authorities to identify any contamination risks and ensure safe land development.

What if I already have a ‘Site Check’ document as part of the sale/purchase of my property?

A basic ‘Site Check’ report is typically computer-generated and lacks the thorough investigation needed for planning approval. Local Planning Authorities often reject these reports due to the absence of critical elements such as a site walkover, conceptual site model, and qualitative risk assessment. Our Phase 1 Desk Studies, prepared by qualified contaminated land consultants, provide a comprehensive assessment that meets regulatory standards and ensures there are no oversights.

How long will it take to prepare a Phase 1 Desk Study?

A Phase 1 Desk Study typically takes up to 2 weeks to complete, depending on site access for the walkover. Delays in accessing the site could extend this timeframe.

What happens after a Phase 1 Desk Study?

After completing a Phase 1 Desk Study, the findings will determine whether further investigations are required. If significant contamination risks are identified, a Phase 2 Site Investigation may be recommended. This involves intrusive testing, such as soil and groundwater sampling, to confirm contamination levels and guide any necessary remediation work.

What is the difference between a Phase 1 and a Phase 2 Site Investigation?

A Phase 1 Desk Study is a non-intrusive investigation that focuses on identifying potential contamination risks through desk-based research, site walkovers, and historical reviews. A Phase 2 Site Investigation is a more detailed, intrusive process involving soil, water, or gas sampling to confirm contamination levels identified during the Phase 1 study. The Phase 1 report determines the need and scope for Phase 2.

Can I skip a Phase 1 Desk Study and undertake a Phase 2 Investigation instead?

It is recommended that the completed Phase 1 Desk Study is submitted to the local planning authority for review and comment, ideally before commencing with any Phase 2 Site Investigation work. Otherwise there is a risk that you will either miss a potentially significant source of contamination that will appear during development (delaying during a critical time in your programme), the regulator (or other key stakeholders) will not approve it or an unnecessary amount of site investigation work will be undertaken, wasting valuable time, money and resources. A good Phase 1 Desk Study undertaken in advance is a small price to pay compared to cost of not undertaking one before breaking ground with a Phase 2 Site Investigation.

Where do you work?

We are based in the South East of England and operate across the UK. Most of our projects are centred in Greater London and the South East, but we are fully equipped to handle projects nationwide.

How can I be sure I need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

If you are unsure as to whether you require a Phase 1 Desk Study, please give us a call, so together we can discuss your requirements. Alternatively, please send an email to info@lustreconsulting.com and provide us with the site location and description of the proposed development, where one of our consultants will be in touch.