Geo-environmental investigation includes:

• Phase 1 desk top studies
• Phase 2 intrusive geo-environmental investigations
• Qualitative and quantitative site-specific risk assessments
• Remedial options appraisal

“Like most industrial societies, we have a considerable legacy of land affected by contamination, often arising from past land use but also from some natural or diffuse sources. Where land has been affected by contamination it may present a risk to a range of receptors including humans, ecosystems, water quality, and property including crops and animals. Current and future use of the land may be adversely affected. Moreover, such potential risks, and uncertainty regarding risks, may inhibit the development or redevelopment of land, and in some cases contribute to long-term dereliction and increasing pressure to develop greenfield land.”

– Environment Agency

In order to regenerate such brownfield land geo-environmental investigation is the starting point…

A Phase 1 investigation comprises a detailed desk study and walk over survey which allows us to gain an understanding of the likely conditions of the site, so we can advise on potential environmental liabilities. This is often referred to as a preliminary risk assessment.

The desk study involves the gathering and review of historical, geological, hydrogeological and hydrological information. It could also incorporate the review of previous site assessments. An initial assessment of risk is made of potential liabilities based upon identified sources, pathways and sensitive receptors.

The phase 1 desk study identifies the need to undertake a phase 2 intrusive investigation and to what extent, the intrusive investigation is designed to test the conclusions of the phase 1 desk study and will provide information such that liability issues associated with the site can be appropriately assessed.

Furthermore the intrusive investigation will determine whether remedial action will be necessary as part of the development of the site or to allow continued operations. A remedial options appraisal should be undertaken at this stage.

The phase 2 investigation will normally be a vital document as required by the local authority planning department for new developments and or re-developments.