Site Condition Assessment for Planning Permission

A site condition assessment is an evaluation of the environmental and physical conditions of a particular site or property. It is typically conducted by environmental consultants or other professionals who specialise in assessing the potential risks associated with a site.

The assessment typically involves a review of the historical and current uses of the site. It also includes an evaluation of the surrounding area and potential sources of contamination. The assessment may also include sampling and analysis of soil, water, and air quality. This will be alongside an evaluation of the structural and other physical conditions of any buildings or infrastructure on the site.

The goal of a site condition assessment is to identify any potential environmental or health risks associated with the site. Following this, a plan can be created to address those risks if necessary. This may include a cleanup of contaminated areas or monitoring of the condition of the land over time. Other actions may also be taken to ensure that the site is safe for its intended use.

Land contamination is often taken into consideration within UK environmental permitting regulations. It can determine whether a site is granted planning permission or not. Therefore, a site condition assessment can assist alongside a planning or permit application.

The first step in conducting a site condition assessment is a Phase 1 environmental site condition report. Our team of ecologists conduct a comprehensive review of relevant information from sources such as the Ordanance Survey, Environment Agency, the British Geological Survey, and Defra. This is to determine the previous land use on and around the site and potential impacts on groundwater and soil.

Additionally, a site visit and environmental survey are conducted to identify any visual or olfactory evidence of environmental risks. This could be from sources such as underground storage tanks and chemical use. Using this information, the ecologist provides a risk rating for the site.

If the Phase 1 assessment indicates potential issues with a protected area, a Phase 2 environmental site assessment is required. This assessment involves gathering samples of water or soil to test for hazardous materials. If contamination is found, mitigation methods must be implemented.

To ensure accurate results, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 assessments must be conducted by experienced ecologists from an environment agency.

Collington Winter are passionate about ecology and provide a holistic and innovative approach to development. We are fast paced problem solvers, working with clients to find solutions where others cannot.

Our Ecology Director, Olivia Collington, is a highly professional Ecologist. She is passionate about ecology and has vast amounts of experience in providing ecological services, including environmental site condition assessments.

We provide a pragmatic service offering to the residential, commercial and minerals sectors nationwide. We understand the importance of working closely with clients to provide a great service and deliver excellent results. We aim to provide a service which meets the needs of developers whilst ensuring positive outcomes for wildlife.

We also offer landscape management services and mitigation.