Phase 1 & Phase 2 Site Investigations
What It Is
Phase 1 and Phase 2 Site Investigations assess whether land is contaminated and what risks it may pose to people, property, and the environment. Phase 1 (Desk Study) gathers historic and environmental information to identify potential risks. Phase 2 (Intrusive Investigation) confirms those risks through on-site sampling and laboratory analysis. These investigations support planning applications and comply with the Environmental Protection Act and local authority guidance.
Why It Matters — Risks Without It
- ❌ Planning refusal or conditions you can’t discharge
- ⚠️ Unexpected contamination causing costly delays and remediation
- 📣 Objections from Environmental Health or the Environment Agency
- 🧾 Legal and financial liabilities if contamination is missed
What’s Measured
- Soil and groundwater quality (metals, hydrocarbons, solvents, asbestos)
- Ground gas and vapours (methane, carbon dioxide, VOCs)
- Geology, groundwater, and pathways for pollutant migration
- Pollutant linkages: sources → pathways → receptors (humans, buildings, water)
How It Works
- Phase 1 (Desk Study & Conceptual Site Model): Review historic maps, records, permits, previous reports, and environmental data; identify potential contamination and produce a conceptual site model (CSM) with risk ranking.
- Investigation Strategy: Design a targeted sampling plan proportionate to the risks and proposed end use; agree scope with the Local Planning Authority if required.
- Phase 2 (Intrusive Investigation): Drill boreholes/trial pits, collect soil and groundwater samples, install monitoring wells; undertake ground gas/volatile monitoring as needed.
- Laboratory Analysis & Risk Assessment: UKAS-accredited testing; compare results with appropriate assessment criteria; update CSM and quantify risks.
- Reporting & Next Steps: Provide a planning-compliant report with conclusions and, if necessary, an outline Remediation Strategy and Verification Plan.
Who It’s For
- 🏗️ Developers and housebuilders redeveloping brownfield or potentially contaminated land
- 🏛️ Planning consultants and architects preparing planning submissions
- 🏢 Landowners and investors undertaking due diligence
- 🌍 Local authorities and regulators requiring independent evidence
What You Get
- 📄 Planning-ready Phase 1 and/or Phase 2 reports aligned with local and national guidance
- 📊 Laboratory data, risk assessment, and updated conceptual site model
- 🧠 Clear recommendations for remediation or no-further-action, tailored to your end use
- ✅ Evidence to satisfy planning conditions and protect programme and budget
De-risk your development: A proportionate Phase 1 & Phase 2 approach finds issues early, avoids surprises, and keeps projects moving.
