Prior approval for proposed change of use of agricultural building to a dwelling, Bradshaws Close, Stalmine-With-Staynall, Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire, FY6

In order to demonstrate that after the development the site could not be classified as ‘contaminated land’ under Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act a Phase I desk study report was required to support the application for the erection of a dwelling.  The site was occupied by an agricultural building, the past use of the site have the potential to impact site soils.

A Phase I desk study report assess the potential for a site to be impacted by contamination, this is undertaken by researching the history of the site and the surrounds as well as a review of information held by regulatory bodies and a site visit.

The history of the site and surrounds were researched using a combination of Ordnance Survey (O.S.) maps, street level imagery and aerial plates, this revealed that was initially undeveloped and formed part of a larger parcel of open land. The site was developed between 1969 and 1985 with aerial plates indicating the site was redeveloped between 2000 and 2002.

A brick works and three ponds were noted within 250m of the site.

The planning history of the site was reviewed as part of the desk based research and the reports associated with any previous application were located and studied, no salient information was obtained

The published geological maps identified the site as being underlain by Devensian TIll which in turn were underlain by the Tarporley Siltstone Formation.

Data provided by regulatory bodies identified a number of ponds and the brick works within 250m of the site.

On completion of the desk based research a site reconnaissance visit was undertaken, the site was occupied by an agricultural which at the time was used for general storage and to house hens. Tthe tank present on site was confirmed to have not been used on the site.

Once the walkover survey was completed 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 potential made ground posed a potential risk and warranted further works.

The report concluded that remediation in lieu of further works was suitable for the site.

The report was submitted to support the application and the recommendations approved.