Procedures ~1. Desk study- Field study or walk-over survey
- Laboratory analysis (see pages 81†82 and 85†87)
Desk Study ~ collection of known data, to include:- Ordnance Survey maps † historical and modern, note grid
reference. - Geological maps † subsoil types, radon risk.
- Site history † green-field/brown-field.
- Previous planning applications/approvals.
- Current planning applications in the area.
- Development restrictions † conservation orders.
- Utilities † location of services on and near the site.
- Aerial photographs.
- Ecology factors † protected wildlife.
- Local knowledge † anecdotal information/rights of way.
- Proximity of local land fill sites † methane risk.
Field Study ~ intrusive visual and physical activity to:- Establish site characteristics from the desk study.
- Assess potential hazards to health and safety.
- Appraise surface conditions:
- Trees † preservation orders.
- Topography and geomorphological mapping.
- Appraise ground conditions:
- Water table.
- Flood potential † local water courses and springs.
- Soil types.
- Contamination † vegetation die-back.
- Engineering risks † ground subsidence, mining, old fuel tanks.
- Financial risks † potential for the unforeseen.
- Take subsoil samples and conduct in-situ tests.
- Consider the need for subsoil exploration, trial pits and bore
holes. - Appraise existing structures:
- Potential for re-use/refurbishment.
- Archaeological value/preservation orders.
- Demolition † costs, health issues e.g. asbestos.
Site Investigations