Permitted Development Change Of Use From Agricultural Building To A Dwelling, Hallfield Road, IP24

Case Study Reference: 16-03-18

Planning Authority: Breckland Council

Planning Reference: 3PN/2016/0022/UC

Synopsis:

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 the site had been developed prior to the first edition map (1882), the only discernible change occurred between 1995 and 2010. A number of ponds within 250m were noted on the maps, no evidence of in-filing was recorded.

Street level imagery indicated the buildings on the site were agricultural.

The planning history of the site was reviewed and no salient information was obtained.

Data provided by regulatory bodies identified filter beds to the west of the site.

On completion of the desk based research a site reconnaissance visit was undertaken, this confirmed the site was occupied by three buildings, used to store wood, general household items and a workshop.  Stockpiled rubble was noted on the central area.

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 made ground on the site warranted further assessment. It was proposed that the made ground identified was to be removed from the site.

The report was submitted to support the application and the recommendations of the report accepted.