Remediation
Identifying contaminated land however is only the first part of
the process. Once it has been correctly identified, the risk needs
to be dealt with and a programme of appropriate remediation must be
undertaken.
What is appropriate remediation?
This means that any work undertaken should result in the land
being ‘suitable for use’ so it no longer poses a significant risk -
bearing in mind its current or proposed use. It also means that the
effects of any significant harm, or water pollution that has
occurred, have been remedied. In many situations the level of
contamination is reduced to the point at which no significant risk
remains. This does not necessarily mean that all traces of
contamination are removed, and in some situations the contamination
will be left where it is but permanently contained, so that it is
prevented from doing any further harm.
The Council has produced a Remediation Strategy, making it
easier for residents and businesses to understand what the process
of remediation might entail. It sets out the steps that will need
to be taken to reduce and ultimately minimise the risks posed once
a site has been designated as ‘contaminated’.