Elliott Environmental Surveyors work with clients and regulators to achieve cost effective solutions to contaminated land problems. As Chartered Environmental Surveyors, we are uniquely positioned to give high quality strategic advice to clients on the environmental aspects of property ownership and development. Our advice is tailored to the needs of our client and is designed to maximise the investment value of the land or property.

Any proposal for development on brownfield land will be subject to scrutiny by the local authority before planning permission is granted. If the site is likely to affect groundwater, the Environment Agency will also be involved. These regulators expect robust assessment of the site which closely follows the guidance they have published.

Increasing pressure on land resources is leading to more developers turning to brownfield sites. These sites offer valuable commercial opportunities, but may also present challenges in terms of pre-planning assessment, planning conditions, regulations and liabilities. EES is focused on helping clients overcome these barriers by combining environmental expertise with our clear understanding of developers’ requirements.

Expertise

Stage 1 & 2 Environmental Risk Assessments

Planners and regulators require contamination issues to be addressed in order to satisfy or pre-empt planning conditions. Desktop studies (Stage 1 risk assessments) or site investigations (Stage 2) are frequently involved. EES are highly experienced in this work and are able to carry out the full range of site investigations to fulfil the demands of the regulator. We carry out both qualitative and quantitative risk assessments and provide our findings in clear and concise reports. We then provide practical recommendations to help you through your dealings with the regulator and planners.

Site Investigations

We make use of a full range of investigation methods to provide information for environmental risk assessments. This includes trial pits, boreholes and groundwater and gas monitoring. Full soil and groundwater chemical analysis is also available, as is gas monitoring and gas testing, all within appropriate accreditation.

Pre-purchase Risk and Liability Audits

Knowledge of the type and extent of any contamination and the potential cost of remediation can be vital in land negotiations and project budgeting. We use a range of desktop and site investigation techniques to gauge the extent of environmental liabilities and to provide estimates of likely costs. We can also advise on planning requirements and regulatory involvement which may stem from developing brownfield sites.

Risk Management & Remediation

Where contamination has been found, we are able to design and project manage cost effective risk management and remediation strategies. We use the latest technologies to deliver effective solutions, take into account the practical needs of the developer, satisfy the requirements of the regulator, and enable the development project to progress smoothly.

Asbestos Surveys

When demolition of existing buildings is required, a Type 3 asbestos survey is required in order to identify the presence and volume of asbestos-containing materials which need to be removed. We offer these surveys using qualified surveyors in accordance with MDHS 100 guidance, and can advise on waste management issues stemming from asbestos removal.

Knowledge

The key to brownfield consultancy is up to date knowledge. We are committed to keeping at the cutting edge. We are involved at national and regional level in organisations who lead professional practice. This includes the RICS, North East Contaminated Land Forum and the Society for the Environment.

• Brownfield Planning Case Study

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