Geo-environmental Investigations

Professional reports to assist in dismissal of Contaminated Land Planning Conditions, to help in formulating site Risk Assessments and Waste Disposal. Investigations are completed in accordance with UK LCRM (Land Contamination Risk Management) Guidance.
Click to find out more about Geotechnical Investigations

Stage 1: Tier 1 - 
Desktop Report

The first stage of a Geo-environmental assessment (formerly known as 'Phase 1'), these reports use published records including land usage, geology and environmentally sensitive areas together with site based reconnaissance. These are used to determine the possibility of land contamination which may affect a future development, human health and protected groundwater.
Once these risks have been assessed, the need for any additional investigation can be ascertained.

Stage 1: Tier 2 - 
Site Investigation & 'GQRA'

Following on from the Desktop Report, this stage of the process uses intrusive investigations such as boreholes and trial pits to ascertain the ground conditions beneath a site and collect samples for analysis. During this investigation, where deemed necessary, boreholes may be installed with monitoring wells to allow measurement and sampling of soil gases and groundwater.
The findings of this investigation are detailed in an interpretive 'GQRA' (Generic Quantitative Risk Assessment) report. Where levels of contamination are found which are not acceptable in the context of the site and any proposed new development, remediation methods which will be required are outlined within the report recommendations. Where absolutely necessary a more complex Detailed Quantitative Risk Assessment Report may be completed, this uses predictive numerical modelling to determine the level of risk.
Commonly these intrusive investigations are combined with geotechnical assessment to provide a comprehensive Site Investigation report. By using investigations for both purposes there is a cost benefit as a single site mobilisation can provide both geotechnical and Geo-environmental parameters.

Stage 2

Options Appraisal
Building on the Risk Assessment within the Site Investigation GQRA / DQRA, this document aims to provide a considered approach to the implementation of Remedial actions. This report will consider
  • The specific risk levels and the people / environmental features which need to be protected.
  • The budget and scale of the development.
  • The feasibility / applicability of different remedial techniques.
  • The Environmental Impact of various remediation options. 

Stage 3

Remediation and Verification
Once the Options Appraisal is complete, the measures to be included in the development are detailed in the Stage 3: Tier 1 'Remediation Strategy' report. This document provides additional detail, including the stakeholders' responsibilities on the project and provides a comprehensive plan for how the these actions will be recorded and by whom.
Once the development is complete and all remedial measures have been completed these are detailed, along with all evidence, in the Stage 3: Tier 2/3 'Verification Report'. This report aims to conclude that the site is fit for it’s intended use.