London – Phase 1 Geo-Environmental Assessment for Planning
Overview
We carried out a detailed desk study, site walkover and early-stage risk assessment to understand the condition of the land and any potential constraints. Our assessment followed national planning and environmental guidance, ensuring that the results were robust, transparent and aligned with what the planning authority expects.
This allowed the project team to deal with environmental issues early and avoid unnecessary cost or delay later in the development process.
Scope
Historical and Environmental Review
We examined historic maps, planning records and environmental data to identify past uses of the site and surrounding area. This helped us understand what contaminants might be present based on historic industrial activity nearby.
Site Walkover:
We visited the site to assess current conditions, check for visible risks and confirm how the land is currently used. No obvious contamination was observed during the visit
Preliminary Risk Assessment
Using the findings, we developed a simple but clear conceptual model showing any potential risks to people, buildings or groundwater. This ensured the client knew exactly what needed to be addressed before construction.
Clear, Pragmatic Phase 2 Recommendations
We outlined a targeted investigation plan that meets planning requirements while avoiding unnecessary work—balancing safety, compliance and commercial efficiency.
Outcome
The Phase 1 assessment concluded that the site presents manageable, low environmental risk, consistent with its history and ground conditions.
We provided a focused Phase 2 investigation scope to confirm ground conditions, check for any hidden contamination and support foundation design.
Our work helped the client:
- Satisfy planning requirements at an early stage
- Reduce uncertainty in design and budgeting
- Avoid over-scoping intrusive investigations
- Progress the redevelopment with clarity and confidence
Clear Environmental’s approach ensured the client had a commercially sound, risk-led route to the next stage of development without unnecessary cost or delay.
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