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Do You Need a Phase 1 Desk Study for Planning Permission?

When applying for planning permission, many developers are surprised to learn that they must first complete a Phase 1 Desk Study. But what exactly is itโ€”and why is it so important?

๐Ÿ” Why Local Authorities Ask for It

Planning departments request a Phase 1 Desk Study when:

๐Ÿญ The site is on or near a former industrial area
๐Ÿ—‘๏ธ There’s a possibility of past contamination
๐Ÿก The development changes land use (e.g. commercial to residential)
๐ŸŒŠ There’s potential risk to water sources or ecosystems

The study ensures environmental risks are identified earlyโ€”before ground is broken.

๐Ÿ“š What’s in a Desk Study?

The report typically includes:

๐Ÿ‘ฃ Site Walkover โ€“ Inspecting the land for signs of past use, pollution, or hazards
๐Ÿ“œ Historical Review โ€“ Looking back through maps and archives to identify risks
๐Ÿ“ˆ Data Analysis โ€“ Reviewing environmental databases, flood risk zones, and nearby contaminated land
๐Ÿงฑ Geology Overview โ€“ Analysing underlying geology and groundwater movement
๐Ÿ“Š Conceptual Site Model (CSM) โ€“ Visual summary of risks and exposure pathways

If potential risks are identified, the report may recommend a Phase 2 Intrusive Investigation.

โš–๏ธ What Happens If You Donโ€™t Do It?

Failing to submit a Phase 1 Desk Study can result in:

โŒ Planning application delays
๐Ÿ” Requests for further info from environmental health officers
๐Ÿ’ท Additional costs due to poor preparation
๐Ÿšง On-site construction delays

Itโ€™s far better to address issues upfront than deal with them mid-project.

๐Ÿ† Why EnviroSolution?

With EnviroSolution, youโ€™ll receive:

๐Ÿ•’ Quick turnaround on reports
๐Ÿ“ž Expert guidance through the planning process
๐Ÿ“ Clear, actionable recommendations
๐Ÿ“ฎ Liaison support with local councils

Our Phase 1 Desk Study reports are accepted by planning authorities across the UK.

โœ… Summary

If youโ€™re submitting a planning application, donโ€™t overlook the need for a Phase 1 Desk Study. Itโ€™s not just a formalityโ€”itโ€™s your key to avoiding environmental pitfalls and speeding up planning approval.

Let our experts help you through the process. Visit our service page or contact us today.