Budget Guarantee
We believe projects should run to budget and that quotes and invoices should be easy to understand and compare.
Holistic
We work holistically to ensure both the environmental and geotechnical aspects of a project work harmoniously.
Always on Schedule
We believe that you shouldn't have to waste your time chasing late reports, so we guarantee our reports will be delivered on time.
Understanding Contaminated Land Risks Through an Environmental Desk Study
An Environmental Desk Study is the first step in understanding the contaminated land risks associated with a piece of land or property. It involves gathering existing information from a wide range of reliable sources.
What an Environmental Desk Study Includes and Why It Matters
The desk study looks at historical land use, nearby industrial activities, flood risk, geology, groundwater, and any records of contamination. For example, if a site used to be a gasworks or landfill, it could pose risks to future users or the environment. Identifying this early helps save time and money and can guide whether more detailed environmental assessments are needed.
To carry out the study, we review maps, aerial photos, planning records, environmental databases, and other public information. They also consider the surrounding area, as pollution or hazards can affect neighbouring sites too. We also come to the property to “walkover” the site, to check the current condition.
Environmental Desk Study Reports: Identifying Risks and Guiding Next Steps
The outcome is a clear, easy-to-understand report that outlines any environmental risks and provides recommendations. This might include advice to carry out a site visit or further testing if there are concerns.
An Environmental Desk Study is often required by planning authorities and may be submitted as part of a planning application. It helps protect people, the environment, and investments by flagging problems early.
Whether you’re buying land, developing property, or planning construction, a desk study is a smart, low-cost way to understand the environmental background of a site.
