Refurbishment of Existing Cottage, The Down, Bridgnorth, Shropshire

Given the sensitive nature of the development (residential) and the history of the site, a contaminated land planning condition was attached to the decision notice for the proposed development.

The first stage of discharging the condition was to prepare a Phase I desk study report in order to determine if the site has the potential to be impacted by elevated levels of contamination, and to determine the source as well as the likelihood of the risk occurring.

A desk study determines what issues relating to historical contamination may affect the site, this is undertaken by reviewing the site history using a combination of O.S. maps, aerial, plates and street level imagery, a review of data held by regulatory bodies (Environment Agency, local authority, BGS etc.) as well as a site walkover survey.

The history of the site and surrounds were researched using a combination of Ordnance Survey (O.S.) maps, street level imagery and aerial plates, revealed that the site was developed prior to the first edition (1882) O.S. map and was occupied by Wardens Cottage.

The planning history of the site was reviewed, this revealed no salient information.

Data provided by regulatory bodies did not identify any potential sources of contamination.

On completion of the desk based research a site reconnaissance visit was undertaken, this confirmed site comprised of a cottage in a state of disrepair and associated garden areas and cement sheeting was identified on the site.

On completion of the walkover survey a qualitative risk assessment was undertaken on the potential sources of contamination identified in the desk study report in order to determine if any warranted further investigation, this concluded that the only credible source of contamination was the cement sheeting present on the site, the report concluded that the sheeting is removed as part fot he development and further would would be required if damaged sheeting was encountered.

The Phase I report was submitted to discharge the contaminated land planning condition (4/02839/DIS)  alongside an asbestos survey the condition was discharged.