When development is proposed on a potentially contaminated site then it is the responsibility of the developer to provide enough information so that a decision regarding the risk involved with developing the site can be taken by us.
In developing a site new receptors may be introduced that weren’t exposed to the contamination before, for example a housing development on a derelict petrol station. In this instance people could be exposed to contamination whilst in their gardens or through eating home-grown vegetables if the correct assessment and remediation had not been carried out.
Or it may be that the development will create new pathways for the contamination to become available to receptors, e.g. a building on a former landfill site. In this example the building may lead to a build up of gases that previously dispersed into the atmosphere.
Any concerns should be identified early in the development process. The developer will then avoid unexpected costs and delays during or after development. We therefore encourage developers to come and discuss any concerns they have at the earliest opportunity.
For further information:
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Contact: Contaminated Land Officer
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Address: Mansion House, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7YG
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Email: pollution@eden.gov.uk
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Telephone: 01768 212490
