Dear List
It may be the Christmas lunch talking... but I thought readers may be interested in the latest update on the Environment Agency's revised policy on planning consultation for contaminated land.
I have received confirmation from my local EA office that the EA National Planning Policy is still under review and that they are considering the implications of 'declining to comment' on certain classes of development and environmental setting.
I respect of my particular case - a leaking diesel tank adjacent to a major watercourse - my local office has responded, "The XXXX site is considered to be of lower environmental sensitivity as it is not located on a Principal Aquifer". When I furthered enquired it seems that the trial policy requires the EA only to comment on developments within Principal Aquifers and/or with SPZ I, II, III and/or in proximity to springs used for public drinking water supply. Issues arising in proximity to surface-water, no matter how sensitive appear not to merit their involvement.
My local EA office are very aware of the difficulties this policy revision will cause LA and developers alike and in particular the obvious pollution risks to sensitive watercourses from emerging groundwater contamination, and they encouraged me to pass examples of such instances to them for national review. I will of course attempt to assist the review process and urge you to do likewise!
Merry Christmas to all!
David E Jackson
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