At Enviropass, we deliver Phase 1 Site Assessments to help you identify environmental risks, meet planning requirements, and align with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Greater London Authority (GLA) strategies.
A Phase 1 Site Assessment evaluates potential contamination risks by reviewing historical land use, environmental records, and conducting a site inspection. It ensures compliance with the NPPF, which requires developments to address land contamination, and the GLA’s London Plan, which prioritises sustainable development and environmental protection.
The GLA’s London Plan emphasises:
Sustainable Development – Minimising environmental impact and promoting green spaces.
Pollution Prevention – Identifying and mitigating contamination risks.
Health and Wellbeing – Ensuring developments are safe for communities.
Our Phase 1 Site Assessments align with these principles, helping you meet GLA requirements and contribute to a greener London.
Most UK local authorities require a Phase 1 site assessment (also known as a Desk Study) if the land has a history of industrial use or if the proposed development is "sensitive," such as new housing. Enviropass provides the technical reports required to validate your application and satisfy the Contaminated Land Officer.
A Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment is the first stage of investigating land contamination. It involves a "desk study" of historical maps and environmental records to identify potential risks. Enviropass delivers these assessments in line with LCRM (Land Contamination Risk Management) guidance to ensure your project meets national standards.
Prices vary based on site size and history, but a professional Phase 1 site assessment typically ranges from £900 to £2,500+. Enviropass provides transparent, fixed-fee quotes that include the essential "Site Walkover" often mandated by councils, ensuring no hidden surprises in your planning budget.
No. A Habitat Survey (or PEA) looks at ecology and wildlife, whereas a Phase 1 site assessment focuses on contaminated land and ground gas. As a full-service environmental consultancy, Enviropass can coordinate both, saving you time and ensuring your ecological surveys don't conflict with your contamination strategy.
A comprehensive Phase 1 site assessment includes a review of historical Ordnance Survey maps, British Geological Survey (BGS) data, groundwater vulnerability maps, and a site reconnaissance visit. Enviropass synthesizes this data into a clear "Conceptual Site Model" to determine if your land is safe for development.
Typically, Enviropass delivers a completed report within 5 to 10 working days following the site visit. We understand that planning deadlines are tight, so we offer a rapid-response service to help you discharge pre-commencement conditions as quickly as possible.
The CSM is a diagram or text that explains the Source-Pathway-Receptor linkages on your site. For example, if there is "Source" (old fuel tank) and a "Receptor" (future residents), Enviropass identifies the "Pathway" (vapour inhalation) to assess the actual risk and avoid unnecessary Phase 2 testing.
LCRM stands for "Land Contamination Risk Management," the Environment Agency’s official framework. Enviropass follows the LCRM stages (1, 2, and 3) strictly, ensuring your reports are technically robust and won't be rejected by the Environment Agency or the local council.
Often yes, many UK councils (such as those in London and the South East) will not accept a "desktop-only" report. An Enviropass consultant will visit your site to look for visual signs of contamination.
Yes. Basement developments in boroughs like Westminster or Camden often require an assessment for radon and historical land use. Enviropass specializes in urban Phase 1 site assessments, providing the specific data needed for complex subterranean projects.
If a risk is identified, the report will recommend a Phase 2 Intrusive Investigation (soil sampling). Enviropass prides itself on pragmatic reporting—we only recommend further work if it is absolutely necessary for safety and planning approval.
For Class MA (office-to-residential) conversions, you must prove the site is not "contaminated land." Enviropass provides the targeted reports needed for Prior Approval, ensuring your change of use isn't blocked by environmental concerns.
Generally, local authorities consider a report valid for 1 to 2 years. If your site has remained unchanged since your last survey, Enviropass can often provide a "letter of reliance" or a quick update at a reduced cost to keep your application current.
Part 2A is the law that defines "statutory contaminated land." While planning deals with future use, Enviropass ensures your development won't be "called in" under Part 2A later, protecting you from future legal and financial liability.
Contamination can limit the types of habitats you can create. Enviropass ensures your BNG plan is compatible with the ground conditions identified in your Phase 1 site assessment, preventing trees from being planted in contaminated areas where they might fail or mobilize pollutants.
Yes. Agricultural land can contain "diffuse" contamination from pesticides, herbicides, or made ground in farmyards. Enviropass identifies these specific risks to ensure the soil is safe for high-sensitivity uses like residential gardens.
"Controlled waters" include aquifers and rivers. If your site is in a Source Protection Zone (SPZ), the Environment Agency will be highly involved. Enviropass has extensive experience liaising with regulators to protect groundwater while moving your development forward.
It is risky. Without one, you could be inheriting significant "remediation" costs. Enviropass provides "Due Diligence" reports for land buyers, giving you a clear picture of the environmental risks before you sign a contract.
A Phase 1 site assessment is non-intrusive, meaning no holes are dug and no samples are taken. It is purely based on records and a visual inspection. Enviropass uses this stage to design the most efficient Phase 2 plan possible, if one is even needed.
Yes, but you will need to assess "ground gas" risks (methane and CO2). Enviropass identifies nearby landfills and historical "pits," providing the evidence needed to determine if gas protection measures are required for your new building.
Phase 1 is the Desk Study (identifying potential risks). Phase 2 is the Intrusive Investigation (drilling and sampling to confirm actual risks). Enviropass guides you through both, ensuring a seamless transition from one stage to the next.
In certain UK regions, a Coal Mining Risk Assessment (CMRA) is required. Enviropass checks the "Coal Authority" records during our Phase 1 site assessment and can provide a full CMRA if your site falls within a High Risk Area.
You must submit your Phase 1 report to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) for their written approval. Enviropass drafts reports specifically to satisfy the technical requirements of Contaminated Land Officers, making the "discharge" process as smooth as possible.
Because we are planning specialists. We don't just provide "data"—we provide a pathway to approval. Enviropass combines environmental science with a commercial understanding of development, ensuring your site is safe, compliant, and ready for construction.
