Erection of Dwelling and Garage, Craigend Road, Auchenbowie, Stirling

Case Study Reference: 10-09-08

Planning Authority: Stirling Council

Planning Reference: 10/00459/PPP

Synopsis:

Due to a gas holder being present near the site, the contaminated land planning condition was attached to the decision notice for the development.

Demeter Environmental were commissioned ot prepare the reports required to discharge the contaminated land planning conditions. The first stage was to prepare a Phase I desk study report.

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 first stage of the preparation of the desk study report was to review the history of the site and the surrounding area using Ordnance Survey maps as well as aerial plates and street level imagery.

The first large scale map (dated 1917) revealed the site had been developed and was occupied by a dwelling and associated gardens, a gasholder was noted to the north west of the site. Three quarries were noted in close proximity to the site.

Data provided by regulators did not identify any further potential issues.

On completion of the desk based assessment a site walkover survey was undertaken.  The site comprised of a walled garden and an allotment garden., the footprint of the former gasholder was inspected and was below the existing buildings. A diesel tank was identified on the northern boundary of the site, but was discounted as a credible source as there was no evidence of fuel releases.  Cement sheeting was also identified on the buildings on the western boundary, which was discounted as a credible source as the sheeting was in good condition.

The historical review identified a number of quarries within 250m of the site, these were inspected as part of the walkover survey and there was no evidence of in-filling, hence were discounted as credible source of contamination.

The report was accepted by the planning authority and the condition discharged.