Remediation Strategy to Discharge your Planning Condition

Why do I need a Remediation Strategy?

Remediation is the third stage of a phased Contaminated Land Assessment that is often required to discharge planning conditions to ensure safe development.

A Remediation Strategy (sometimes called a Remediation Plan) is prepared once a Phase 2 Site Investigation has confirmed unacceptable risks. Its purpose is to break identified pollutant linkages or reduce risks to an acceptable level.

The Remediation Strategy sets out:

• The chosen remedial option for the site

• The mitigation measures and methodology to be implemented during redevelopment

• How remedial works will be validated and verified (often referred to as the Verification Plan)

This document allows designers, contractors and developers to make the necessary provisions for remediation at an early stage. By agreeing the methodology in advance with the local planning authority and, where relevant, the Environment Agency, the process is more efficient and cost-effective.

The remedial option selected will depend on several factors, including:

• The type and extent of contamination

• Proposed development and end use

• Geology and hydrogeology of the site

• Access and logistical constraints

• Project timescales and budget

When complete, the Remediation Strategy is submitted to the local planning authority and other regulators for formal approval prior to works commencing.

Remediation Verification

The second stage of remediation is Verification. This confirms that the remedial measures set out in the Strategy have been carried out satisfactorily and that the objectives have been achieved. Verification may include:

• Site inspections during works

• Review of contractor records and documentation

• Field and laboratory testing

This step provides assurance to regulators that the site has been made suitable for its intended use.

Remediation Techniques

There are a range of remediation techniques available, and the industry continues to develop new approaches. Common examples include:

• Engineered capping layers

• Localised hotspot removal

• Stabilisation and solidification

• Bioremediation (windrows, biopiles, in-situ)

• Pump-and-treat systems

• Thermal treatment methods

• Chemical treatment processes