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Many new developmennts are built on "brownfield" or previously developed land. If a planning application is made on a area of land that has been previously used – for example, land that has been used for industrial purposes – the planning application may be affected by the presence of contamination. It is therefore important to ensure that any contamination is dealt with in an appropriate manner to ensure the site is safe for future occupiers.

The Council's approach to Land Contamination

Government Planning Policy Guidance recognises that land potentially affected by contamination is a material planning consideration and the development phase is the most cost-effective time to deal with the problem. Planning legislation and guidance places the responsibility on owners and developers to establish the extent of any potentially harmful materials on their sites.

It is the Council's duty to ensure that owners and developers carry out the necessary investigations and formulate proposals for dealing with any contamination in a responsible and effective manner.

Where a developer is proposing to develop land which may be contaminated, it is advisable to contact the Council to discuss land contamination issues before submitting a planning application.

Contaminated land issues will be dealt with by the Environmental Health department.