Shaping the future of brownfield sitesÂ
With the government’s increasing focus on revitalising underused land and tackling the housing crisis, brownfield redevelopment is at the forefront of construction and planning, but developers face new government policy updates and planning challenges.
Last year the government increased pressure on big city councils to prioritise brownfield development, build new homes in the right places and protect the Green Belt. It was a major shake-up to planning rules to boost housebuilding and for councils to be more flexible in applying policies that halt housebuilding on brownfield land.
Support for our clients
We’re here to provide effective strategies, and sustainable regeneration techniques that are enabling more brownfield development projects for our clients.
We recognise there is a growing demand for specialist expertise in this type of land use but it must factor in environmental risk management along with sustainable urban development. That’s why we’re working with developers, contractors, and local authorities to transform contaminated and derelict sites into new housing and commercial spaces.
tailored excavation options
Our excavation services are not ‘off the shelf’. Each plot of land requires careful consideration of environmental factors and planned intended land use before we send in the diggers. This tailored approach means underground infrastructure, endangered species and protected habitats can all be catered for when removing soils contaminated with invasive plants or asbestos.
Developing brownfield sites, previously used for industrial or commercial purposes offers a sustainable alternative to urban sprawl, utilising existing infrastructure and potentially reducing development costs while addressing the UK’s growing housing needs.
Overcoming Challenges of brownfield development
Environmental: Brownfield sites may be contaminated with invasive plants and/or hazardous substances, requiring complex remediation efforts – our all-in-one Multi Contaminant Removal option is the ideal solution. Having invasive plant material and asbestos in soils removed at the same time is more efficient and saves sourcing multiple contractors.
Dealing with infrastructure or utilities: Our range of excavation methods (including vacuum extraction) ensure we can protect any existing structures such as pipes and cables whilst removing invasive plants or asbestos contaminated soils (or both at the same time).
Endangered species: A full site survey will identify any such environmental or habitat considerations, which can be factored into the plans for removing contamination from site.
Contamination risks: The presence of hazardous substances such as asbestos or arsenic can pose risks to workers and residents during and after development. We’ll take that risk away by soil sampling and testing to ascertain exactly what’s in the ground. We’ll then quote for removing it from site.
What are brownfield sites?
- Brownfield sites are previously developed lands, often abandoned or underutilised, that have the potential for reuse or redevelopment.
- These sites can include derelict buildings, former factories, industrial areas, or other commercial properties.
- Most often located in urban areas, making them attractive for redevelopment projects requiring the facilities a local town can provide.
Why is brownfield development important?
- Provides more sustainable development.
- Reduced urban sprawl into surrounding green spaces.
- Many brownfield sites are in areas where existing infrastructure, such as roads, utilities, and transportation networks can be utilised, reducing project costs and time.
- Revitalising urban areas can lead to more jobs, and generate a flourishing economic environment.
- Addressing the housing crisis by providing new housing where it’s most needed – in urban areas.
We’re here to help with tailored excavation options to suit your site’s needs and planned usage. Have a question for the team or would like a survey or quote?
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