ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SERVICES CAPABILITY STATEMENT
National Consultancy Locally Delivered
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SERVICES CAPABILITY STATEMENT
Introduction to REC
Our expertise includes:
Resource and Environmental Consultants Limited (REC) is a multi-disciplinary Environmental, Geotechnical, Health, Safety & Regulatory Compliance Consultancy. We provide high quality, solution driven environmental services, delivered by local experts to an international client base.
Geotechnical Investigation & Assessment
With extensive capability developed over the past 18 years, we take pride in offering our clients specialised environmental assessment services from our 15 offices throughout the UK. From stack emissions monitoring at international petrochemical refineries, to geo-technical investigation of a former landfill or acoustic specification for a new waste transfer station, you can be sure REC has the right experience to provide support and guidance whenever and wherever it is required.
Acoustics, Noise & Vibration
Professionals on Your Side REC has grown to be a respected professional consultancy that prides itself on technical expertise. As a company we invest heavily in staff training and company accreditation to ensure whether a project is large or small, our clients receive the highest quality service.
Contaminated Land Investigation & Assessment Air Quality Monitoring Air Quality Impact Assessment Environmental Management Asbestos Consultancy Services Flood Risk Services Health and Safety Training Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy
Environmental Planning - REC Overview
Company Accreditation
The REC Environmental Planning Services team consists of technical specialists from each REC business unit, with extensive experience in the provision of support to the land development sector. This structure gives us the ability to holistically consider the proposed scheme and identify interactions between the relevant environmental disciplines, potentially providing time and cost savings through a joined up assessment approach.
REC takes pride in the quality credentials of its staff, with Continual Professional Development (CPD) and professional memberships encouraged throughout the company. This ensures we are at the forefront of each environmental discipline with an understanding of the key issues within the relevant field.
With an outstanding track record in the delivery of a wide range of projects, from small sites with specific constraints to major development schemes, REC can provide the correct scope of works and specific methodologies to suit any project and budget. REC supply individual contributions in specialist areas, or full coordination of all environmental inputs required in support of planning submissions. With the ability to integrate into wider project teams or form and manage our own, our local consultants can deliver a bespoke assessment tailored to your exact needs throughout all planning stages.
Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES)
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM)
Within the Environmental Planning Services team we have Chartered Environmentalists, Chemists and Geologists, in addition to members of the following Institutes:
Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM)
Institute of Acoustics (IoA)
Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH)
Institute of Environmental Science (IEnvSc)
Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA)
Planning Stage Life Cycle
Planning Stage
REC Service
Site Selection
Site Constraints Assessment Scoping Report Due Diligence Audit Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Planning Application
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Air Quality Assessment Noise Assessment Phase 1 Geoenvironmental Assessment Lighting Assessment Flood Risk Assessment Protected Species and Habitat Survey EIA Technical Chapters
Condition Discharge
Contaminated Land Assessment Site Remediation Sound Insulation Testing Protected Species Mitigation
Environmental Impact Assessment The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 require that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is undertaken to consider potential impacts associated with new developments. REC provides a pragmatic approach to EIA, with the emphasis on early scoping and consultation with the Local Planning Authority to avoid unnecessary assessment and associated costs. With the ability to fully co-ordinate the EIA and produce the associated Environmental Statement, or supply individual technical chapters, our team is ideally placed to offer clear, concise and regulatory compliant deliverables. REC provides a complete EIA consultancy service with project experience ranging from small, private sector developments to major public infrastructure schemes.
Our key EIA services include: Advice on statutory requirements and EIA strategy Project feasibility and environmental scoping studies Baseline surveys and data collection Impact analysis and computer modelling Design of mitigation measures Preparation and review of Environmental Statements Exhibitions, public consultation and stakeholder involvement Environmental Management Plans and audits
Air Quality REC provides complete Air Quality Assessment solutions for any issue you may be facing. With continued pressure on the development of brownfield sites, the consideration of air quality and odour issues at an early stage in the project can identify potential site constraints in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework and play a positive role throughout Masterplanning. REC maintains a full range of dispersion modelling software including ADMS-Roads, ADMS-4, Breeze ROADS, Screen View, DMRB and Breeze AERMOD. This allows consideration of all types of pollution sources, making sure that any issue can be accurately assessed. The team strives to develop strong relationships with the regulatory bodies and relevant consultees to ensure our submissions are accepted first time, avoiding costly project delays and programme slippage. With extensive experience in the industrial, commercial, residential and educational sectors, our consultants can provide pragmatic advice on any development site.
Our key Air Quality Assessment services include: Air Quality Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Dispersion Modelling Assessments Odour Assessments Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) Scoping Studies Site Constraint Reports DMRB Screening Assessments Habitat Regulations Assessments
Acoustics, Noise and Vibration REC Acoustics offer complete noise and vibration consultancy to a wide range of public and private sector clients. All acoustic consultants are members of the Institute of Acoustics and have comprehensive experience in conducting Noise Impact Assessments.
Our key Acoustic services include; Noise Assessments Vibration Assessments EIA Technical Chapters
Noise and vibration impacts during construction can be significant both in terms of the magnitude and duration of the activity. Specific concerns may also be raised if construction is required outside of normal working hours. REC Acoustics have extensive experience in all areas of construction noise and vibration assessment for both small and large scale developments, including the specification of mitigation to control any significant effects. The majority of residential or mixed use developments require a Noise Assessment or Noise Survey to be carried out in support of the planning application in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework. This ensures that adequate protection is provided for future residents by minimising adverse noise impacts.
Noise Surveys Sound Insulation Testing Occupational Noise at Work Assessments Mitigation Requirement Reports Industrial Noise Assessment in accordance with BS 4142
Land Conditions As one of the largest teams within the company, REC GeoEnvironmental has undertaken site investigations and provided remedial advice on contaminated land and groundwater contamination on a significant number of small and large scale sites for both private and public sector clients throughout the UK. With potentially large site remediation costs on even small sites, it is essential to gain an accurate understanding of likely issues as early in the project programme as possible. REC can assist from the initial desk top study and site walkover, through full ground investigation of contaminated land to the design, implementation, supervision and aftercare of full remedial programmes. Due to the close working relationship we enjoy with our sister company, Scientific Analysis Laboratories (SAL), we are able to offer very competitive analysis costs and fast turnaround times that are unavailable to other consultancies.
Our key Land Conditions services include: Due Diligence and Compliance Audits Phase I Site Investigations (Desk Study) Phase II Site Investigations EIA Technical Chapters Qualitative and Quantitative Risk Assessments Site Remediation and Validation Services Ground Investigations Groundwater Testing Geotechnical Surveys Coal Mining Assessments COSHH Assessments
Lighting Assessments The requirement for Lighting Impact Assessments to be undertaken in support of planning applications has increased significantly in recent years. Artificial light is classified as a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act; leaving future occupiers open to legal action should an unsuitable lighting scheme be implemented. It is therefore essential to ensure artificial light is adequately assessed as part of the planning process and appropriate control techniques integrated into developments. REC is able to provide complete Lighting Assessment services through our national team. From baseline light assessments to detailed lighting EIAs, we are able to provide a fully tailored package to address the specific requirements of your site. As well as artificial lighting, we are able to undertake natural lighting assessments, including consideration of overshadowing as a result of new developments and existing receptors right to daylight and sunlight.
Our key Lighting Assessment services include: Baseline Lighting Surveys and Assessments Detailed Lighting Impact Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing Assessments Detailed Computational Modelling of Lighting Sources Development of Mitigation Strategies
Flood Risk Services REC has successfully provided Flood Risk services on a large number of sites throughout the UK to facilitate planning approvals. REC have a team of highly qualified hydrologists and engineers who can provide technical advice on Flood Risk requirements for all new development sites as part of planning applications and EIAs. REC's Flood Risk services take into account all necessary Environment Agency requirements. We also have access to flood modelling capabilities in cases where a flood plain challenge is necessary.
Our key Flood Risk services include: Flood Risk Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Assessment of Flood Levels (Historical and Future) Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) Design Flood Defense Structures Flood Escape Routes Mitigation Measures
We provide clear guidance on the issues and advice on mitigation measures to allow development in areas which are potentially at risk from fluvial, pluvial and tidal flooding. Working closely with our ground investigation team, we can also advise on groundwater flooding issues, water quality and pollution prevention.
Soakaway Testing Flood Consequence Assessments Flood Services for Insurers
Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy Driven by the requirements of increasingly rigorous wildlife legislation; REC Ecology can provide pragmatic, clear-cut solutions meeting the needs of our clients whilst maintaining the natural environment. The ecology team comprises professionally qualified consultants that specialise in the delivery of ecological surveys, assessments and research. Furthermore, the team benefits from working alongside other specialist disciplines, gaining an invaluable and up to date understanding of issues of relevance to ecological impact assessment whilst being able to provide combined, cost-effective and innovative approaches at any stage of a project, from feasibility through to planning, consultants and implementation. We are able to offer a wide range of services for our clients, from undertaking initial site appraisals, to the design and implementation of large-scale ecological mitigation projects.
Our key Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy services include: Pre-purchase Site Investigation Surveys Protected Species and Habitat Surveys BREEAM Land Use and Ecology Assessments Code for Sustainable Homes Assessments Wildlife Habitat Design, Creation and Management Protected Species Mitigation Amphibian, Reptile and Water Vole Fencing Phase I Habitat Surveys EIA Technical Chapters
Case Study 1 Client: Mulbury Homes Services Provided: Multi-Disciplinary Environmental Consultancy Site: Folly Lane, Warrington REC Ltd was commissioned by Mulbury Homes to undertake an extensive range of environmental consultancy services for a proposed residential development of land located off Folly Lane, Warrington. REC were contracted to provide a Phase I Geo-Environmental Site Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment to determine potential contaminated land, geotechnical liabilities and risk from flooding associated with the acquisition of the land. An extended Phase I Habitat Survey was conducted to assess the nature conservation importance of the site alongside the predevelopment arboricultural survey which provided information on existing vegetation within the proposed development. An Air Quality Assessment was also provided in order to consider existing odour sources in the vicinity of the site, assess the suitability for residential end use and consider potential impacts. A Noise and Vibration Assessment was undertaken to identify key sources which had the potential to impact upon the proposed development. Both of these assessments had to consider the issues surrounding the West Coast mainline bordering the site and the measures required to ensure a suitable level of amenity for future residents.
Review of flood mapping displayed that the site was located outside any predefined area deemed to be at risk and the results of the Dispersion Modelling Assessment indicated that predicted pollutant concentrations were below the relevant air quality standards. REC recommended the installation of an acoustic fence along certain parts of the site boundary and glazing and window mounted trickle ventilators in order to control noise within certain residential dwellings and external amenity areas. REC assessed the implications of any potential environmental risks, liabilities and development constraints associated with the site in relation to the future use to provide factual and interpretative reports, as well as preliminary recommendations on any potential development issues.
Case Study 2 Client: Gleeds Services Provided: Site Investigation and Lighting Assessment Site: Avon and Somerset Police REC was commissioned by Gleeds on behalf of Avon and Somerset Constabulary to undertake Site Investigation works and Lighting Assessments at four development sites in the south-west of England. The client wished to develop a number of new police headquarters and site investigation works were required in order to assess the potential for contamination at each of the proposed locations. The scope of the commission included: geotechnical assessment, slope stability assessment, soil and groundwater risk assessment, ground gas assessment, hazardous material surveys, drainage CCTV surveys and asbestos surveys. As a result of the relevant assessments, potential risks to site end users were identified and outline mitigation techniques proposed. This provided the client with a full understanding of the ground conditions at each of the development locations and allowed any necessary remediation works to be included within the construction costings.
Due to the rural nature of a number of the sites concerns had also been raised in regards to potential loss of amenity at nearby properties as a result of light spillage from floodlighting associated with the developments. Baseline Lighting Assessments were therefore undertaken to quantify existing levels across the sites and determine the relevant Environmental Zone. This allowed the maximum increase in lighting levels as a result of the development to be determined for use at the detailed design stage.
Case Study 3 Client: Ladson Group Services Provided: Noise and Air Quality Assessments Site: Tesco, Little Lever, Bolton REC helped secure planning consent for a food store and associated infrastructure in Bolton, Lancashire, generating 100 jobs and bringing a redundant brownfield site into use. Having been commissioned by Ladson Group on behalf of Tesco, REC provided Noise and Air Quality Assessments in support of the development. The site was located close to existing and proposed housing and concerns had been raised by the local council that the store would cause significant impacts on existing amenity levels throughout its operation. A detailed scope of works was produced by REC to address the issues whilst protecting the client's interests from unduly constraining planning conditions. Given the locality of the site within a predominantly residential area, REC were presented with the significant challenge of mitigating potential service yard noise impacts upon local inhabitants. To address this problem, we provided engineering advice for the specification of an acoustic fence in order to meet the local planning authorities' stringent noise criteria, and undertook extensive consultation with the environmental health department to agree acceptable conditions for the developer whilst protecting amenity levels.
Air Quality also presented another issue, with high existing pollution levels close to the site and concerns that traffic generated by the scheme would result in unacceptable amounts of exhaust emissions. We undertook a detailed assessment of the proposed scheme to investigate fully any impacts associated with the development and concluded that impacts would not be significant at any sensitive location. As a result of REC's assessments, the proposed Tesco store obtained a smooth transition through the planning phase, receiving unanimous vote in favour of the development.
Case Study 4 Client: MEPC Services Provided: Air Quality, Noise and Lighting Assessment Site: Milton Park, Didcot REC provided multi-disciplinary environmental assessments in support of a Local Development Order (LDO) application for Milton Park, near Didcot. Owned by MEPC, Milton Park is part of the Science Vale UK Enterprise Zone and one of Europe’s largest multi-use business parks, hosting more than 160 companies, which employ around 6,500 people over its 100hectare site. The park currently has around 2.7 million square feet (250,000 square metres) of employment and other floorspace, and provides high-quality offices, headquarters buildings, laboratories, industrial units and warehousing. The Milton Park LDO will simplify planning control over the next 15-years to give greater flexibility for businesses to develop new premises and facilities or adapt existing premises, whilst maintaining a successful and diverse mix of employment generating uses. Contributing to one of the first LDO applications within the UK, REC provided assessments of baseline air quality, lighting and noise levels in the vicinity of the site. These were then used to identify potential impacts as a result of any future development and produce parameters for inclusion within the LDO. These were designed to ensure all future proposals would not cause
significant environmental effects at sensitive locations, whilst facilitating growth within Milton Park. The parameters proposed by REC have since been included within the LDO which has been formally adopted by the Vale of White Horse District Council.
REC Services Services REC Environmental Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Environmental Air Quality Quality Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Air Odour Assessment Assessment Odour Dispersion Modelling Modelling Dispersion Stack Emissions Emissions Testing Testing Stack Ambient Pollution Pollution Monitoring Monitoring Ambient Geotechnical Investigation Investigation & & Assessment Assessment Geotechnical Contaminated Land Land Investigation Investigation & & Assessment Assessment Contaminated Waste Management Management Waste Due Diligence Diligence & & Compliance Compliance Audit Audit Due Groundwater Testing Testing Groundwater Acoustics, Noise Noise & & Vibration Vibration Acoustics, Sound Insulation Insulation Testing Testing Sound Noise at at Work Work Assessment Assessment Noise Environmental Management Management Environmental Divestment Services Services Divestment
Environmental Management Management Systems Systems Environmental CDM Co-ordinator Co-ordinator CDM Environmental Health Health and and Safety Safety Legal Legal Compliance Compliance Audit Audit Environmental Environmental Permit Permit Application Application Environmental Asbestos Consultancy Consultancy Services Services Asbestos Health and and Safety Safety Training Training Health NEBOSH Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses NEBOSH IOSH Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses IOSH IEMA Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses IEMA CDM Training Training Courses Courses CDM Asbestos Training Training Courses Courses Asbestos Ecology and and Wildlife Wildlife Consultancy Consultancy Ecology Phase 1 1 Habitat Habitat Survey Survey Phase Lighting Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Lighting Flood Risk Risk Assessment Assessment Flood
Manchester
Croydon
Port Talbot
Dundee
Osprey House, Pacific Quay
Capital Business Centre, 22 Carlton
Unit 19, Kenfig Industrial Estate
Unit 1.7, Discovery House
Broadway, Manchester
Road, South Croydon,
Margam, Port Talbot
Gemini Crescent, Dundee
M50 2UE
CR2 0BS
SA13 2PE
DD2 1SW
Tel: 0161 868 1300
Tel: 02034 788 076
Tel: 01656 749 823
Tel: 01382 561 985
Plymouth
Stansted
Birmingham
Northern Ireland
Unit 13, Barn Close, Langage Business
Environment House, Bullocks Lane,
Unit 19, Bordesley Trading Estate
69A Killyman Street, Moy
Park
Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire
Bordesley Green Road, Birmingham
County Tyrone
Plymouth, Devon
CM22 6TA
B8 1BZ
BT71 7EA
Tel: 01279 879 416
Tel: 0121 326 7007
Tel: 02887 789 180
Swindon
Glasgow
Dublin
Southampton
Unit 58, Shrivenham Hundred Business
16 Langlands Place, Kelvin South
Suite 1194, Fitzwilliam Business Centre
Environment House, Segensworth
Park
Business Park, East Kilbride, Glasgow
77 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay
Business Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
Majors Road, Watchfield, Swindon
G75 0YF
Dublin 2
PO15 5RQ
SN6 8TY
Tel: 01355 573 350
Tel: +353 1 640 1817
Tel: 01329 847 783
Tel: 01793 784 935
London
Cardiff
Stirling
85 Tottenham Court Road
Unit 1, Phase 11, Greenmeadow Springs
11 Murchison Park, Stirling Road
London
Business Park, Tongwynlais
Doune, Stirling
W1T 4TQ
Cardiff, Wales, CF15 7AB
FK16 6AY
Tel: 02034 022 352
Tel: 02920 529 822
Tel: 01786 842 676
PL7 5HQ Tel: 0844 461 6735
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SERVICES CAPABILITY STATEMENT
Introduction to REC
Our expertise includes:
Resource and Environmental Consultants Limited (REC) is a multi-disciplinary Environmental, Geotechnical, Health, Safety & Regulatory Compliance Consultancy. We provide high quality, solution driven environmental services, delivered by local experts to an international client base.
Geotechnical Investigation & Assessment
With extensive capability developed over the past 18 years, we take pride in offering our clients specialised environmental assessment services from our 15 offices throughout the UK. From stack emissions monitoring at international petrochemical refineries, to geo-technical investigation of a former landfill or acoustic specification for a new waste transfer station, you can be sure REC has the right experience to provide support and guidance whenever and wherever it is required.
Acoustics, Noise & Vibration
Professionals on Your Side REC has grown to be a respected professional consultancy that prides itself on technical expertise. As a company we invest heavily in staff training and company accreditation to ensure whether a project is large or small, our clients receive the highest quality service.
Contaminated Land Investigation & Assessment Air Quality Monitoring Air Quality Impact Assessment Environmental Management Asbestos Consultancy Services Flood Risk Services Health and Safety Training Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy
Environmental Planning - REC Overview
Company Accreditation
The REC Environmental Planning Services team consists of technical specialists from each REC business unit, with extensive experience in the provision of support to the land development sector. This structure gives us the ability to holistically consider the proposed scheme and identify interactions between the relevant environmental disciplines, potentially providing time and cost savings through a joined up assessment approach.
REC takes pride in the quality credentials of its staff, with Continual Professional Development (CPD) and professional memberships encouraged throughout the company. This ensures we are at the forefront of each environmental discipline with an understanding of the key issues within the relevant field.
With an outstanding track record in the delivery of a wide range of projects, from small sites with specific constraints to major development schemes, REC can provide the correct scope of works and specific methodologies to suit any project and budget. REC supply individual contributions in specialist areas, or full coordination of all environmental inputs required in support of planning submissions. With the ability to integrate into wider project teams or form and manage our own, our local consultants can deliver a bespoke assessment tailored to your exact needs throughout all planning stages.
Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES)
Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (IEEM)
Within the Environmental Planning Services team we have Chartered Environmentalists, Chemists and Geologists, in addition to members of the following Institutes:
Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM)
Institute of Acoustics (IoA)
Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH)
Institute of Environmental Science (IEnvSc)
Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA)
Planning Stage Life Cycle
Planning Stage
REC Service
Site Selection
Site Constraints Assessment Scoping Report Due Diligence Audit Phase 1 Habitat Survey
Planning Application
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Air Quality Assessment Noise Assessment Phase 1 Geoenvironmental Assessment Lighting Assessment Flood Risk Assessment Protected Species and Habitat Survey EIA Technical Chapters
Condition Discharge
Contaminated Land Assessment Site Remediation Sound Insulation Testing Protected Species Mitigation
Environmental Impact Assessment The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2011 require that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is undertaken to consider potential impacts associated with new developments. REC provides a pragmatic approach to EIA, with the emphasis on early scoping and consultation with the Local Planning Authority to avoid unnecessary assessment and associated costs. With the ability to fully co-ordinate the EIA and produce the associated Environmental Statement, or supply individual technical chapters, our team is ideally placed to offer clear, concise and regulatory compliant deliverables. REC provides a complete EIA consultancy service with project experience ranging from small, private sector developments to major public infrastructure schemes.
Our key EIA services include: Advice on statutory requirements and EIA strategy Project feasibility and environmental scoping studies Baseline surveys and data collection Impact analysis and computer modelling Design of mitigation measures Preparation and review of Environmental Statements Exhibitions, public consultation and stakeholder involvement Environmental Management Plans and audits
Air Quality REC provides complete Air Quality Assessment solutions for any issue you may be facing. With continued pressure on the development of brownfield sites, the consideration of air quality and odour issues at an early stage in the project can identify potential site constraints in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework and play a positive role throughout Masterplanning. REC maintains a full range of dispersion modelling software including ADMS-Roads, ADMS-4, Breeze ROADS, Screen View, DMRB and Breeze AERMOD. This allows consideration of all types of pollution sources, making sure that any issue can be accurately assessed. The team strives to develop strong relationships with the regulatory bodies and relevant consultees to ensure our submissions are accepted first time, avoiding costly project delays and programme slippage. With extensive experience in the industrial, commercial, residential and educational sectors, our consultants can provide pragmatic advice on any development site.
Our key Air Quality Assessment services include: Air Quality Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Dispersion Modelling Assessments Odour Assessments Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) Scoping Studies Site Constraint Reports DMRB Screening Assessments Habitat Regulations Assessments
Acoustics, Noise and Vibration REC Acoustics offer complete noise and vibration consultancy to a wide range of public and private sector clients. All acoustic consultants are members of the Institute of Acoustics and have comprehensive experience in conducting Noise Impact Assessments.
Our key Acoustic services include; Noise Assessments Vibration Assessments EIA Technical Chapters
Noise and vibration impacts during construction can be significant both in terms of the magnitude and duration of the activity. Specific concerns may also be raised if construction is required outside of normal working hours. REC Acoustics have extensive experience in all areas of construction noise and vibration assessment for both small and large scale developments, including the specification of mitigation to control any significant effects. The majority of residential or mixed use developments require a Noise Assessment or Noise Survey to be carried out in support of the planning application in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework. This ensures that adequate protection is provided for future residents by minimising adverse noise impacts.
Noise Surveys Sound Insulation Testing Occupational Noise at Work Assessments Mitigation Requirement Reports Industrial Noise Assessment in accordance with BS 4142
Land Conditions As one of the largest teams within the company, REC GeoEnvironmental has undertaken site investigations and provided remedial advice on contaminated land and groundwater contamination on a significant number of small and large scale sites for both private and public sector clients throughout the UK. With potentially large site remediation costs on even small sites, it is essential to gain an accurate understanding of likely issues as early in the project programme as possible. REC can assist from the initial desk top study and site walkover, through full ground investigation of contaminated land to the design, implementation, supervision and aftercare of full remedial programmes. Due to the close working relationship we enjoy with our sister company, Scientific Analysis Laboratories (SAL), we are able to offer very competitive analysis costs and fast turnaround times that are unavailable to other consultancies.
Our key Land Conditions services include: Due Diligence and Compliance Audits Phase I Site Investigations (Desk Study) Phase II Site Investigations EIA Technical Chapters Qualitative and Quantitative Risk Assessments Site Remediation and Validation Services Ground Investigations Groundwater Testing Geotechnical Surveys Coal Mining Assessments COSHH Assessments
Lighting Assessments The requirement for Lighting Impact Assessments to be undertaken in support of planning applications has increased significantly in recent years. Artificial light is classified as a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act; leaving future occupiers open to legal action should an unsuitable lighting scheme be implemented. It is therefore essential to ensure artificial light is adequately assessed as part of the planning process and appropriate control techniques integrated into developments. REC is able to provide complete Lighting Assessment services through our national team. From baseline light assessments to detailed lighting EIAs, we are able to provide a fully tailored package to address the specific requirements of your site. As well as artificial lighting, we are able to undertake natural lighting assessments, including consideration of overshadowing as a result of new developments and existing receptors right to daylight and sunlight.
Our key Lighting Assessment services include: Baseline Lighting Surveys and Assessments Detailed Lighting Impact Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Daylight, Sunlight and Overshadowing Assessments Detailed Computational Modelling of Lighting Sources Development of Mitigation Strategies
Flood Risk Services REC has successfully provided Flood Risk services on a large number of sites throughout the UK to facilitate planning approvals. REC have a team of highly qualified hydrologists and engineers who can provide technical advice on Flood Risk requirements for all new development sites as part of planning applications and EIAs. REC's Flood Risk services take into account all necessary Environment Agency requirements. We also have access to flood modelling capabilities in cases where a flood plain challenge is necessary.
Our key Flood Risk services include: Flood Risk Assessments EIA Technical Chapters Assessment of Flood Levels (Historical and Future) Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) Design Flood Defense Structures Flood Escape Routes Mitigation Measures
We provide clear guidance on the issues and advice on mitigation measures to allow development in areas which are potentially at risk from fluvial, pluvial and tidal flooding. Working closely with our ground investigation team, we can also advise on groundwater flooding issues, water quality and pollution prevention.
Soakaway Testing Flood Consequence Assessments Flood Services for Insurers
Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy Driven by the requirements of increasingly rigorous wildlife legislation; REC Ecology can provide pragmatic, clear-cut solutions meeting the needs of our clients whilst maintaining the natural environment. The ecology team comprises professionally qualified consultants that specialise in the delivery of ecological surveys, assessments and research. Furthermore, the team benefits from working alongside other specialist disciplines, gaining an invaluable and up to date understanding of issues of relevance to ecological impact assessment whilst being able to provide combined, cost-effective and innovative approaches at any stage of a project, from feasibility through to planning, consultants and implementation. We are able to offer a wide range of services for our clients, from undertaking initial site appraisals, to the design and implementation of large-scale ecological mitigation projects.
Our key Ecology and Wildlife Consultancy services include: Pre-purchase Site Investigation Surveys Protected Species and Habitat Surveys BREEAM Land Use and Ecology Assessments Code for Sustainable Homes Assessments Wildlife Habitat Design, Creation and Management Protected Species Mitigation Amphibian, Reptile and Water Vole Fencing Phase I Habitat Surveys EIA Technical Chapters
Case Study 1 Client: Mulbury Homes Services Provided: Multi-Disciplinary Environmental Consultancy Site: Folly Lane, Warrington REC Ltd was commissioned by Mulbury Homes to undertake an extensive range of environmental consultancy services for a proposed residential development of land located off Folly Lane, Warrington. REC were contracted to provide a Phase I Geo-Environmental Site Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment to determine potential contaminated land, geotechnical liabilities and risk from flooding associated with the acquisition of the land. An extended Phase I Habitat Survey was conducted to assess the nature conservation importance of the site alongside the predevelopment arboricultural survey which provided information on existing vegetation within the proposed development. An Air Quality Assessment was also provided in order to consider existing odour sources in the vicinity of the site, assess the suitability for residential end use and consider potential impacts. A Noise and Vibration Assessment was undertaken to identify key sources which had the potential to impact upon the proposed development. Both of these assessments had to consider the issues surrounding the West Coast mainline bordering the site and the measures required to ensure a suitable level of amenity for future residents.
Review of flood mapping displayed that the site was located outside any predefined area deemed to be at risk and the results of the Dispersion Modelling Assessment indicated that predicted pollutant concentrations were below the relevant air quality standards. REC recommended the installation of an acoustic fence along certain parts of the site boundary and glazing and window mounted trickle ventilators in order to control noise within certain residential dwellings and external amenity areas. REC assessed the implications of any potential environmental risks, liabilities and development constraints associated with the site in relation to the future use to provide factual and interpretative reports, as well as preliminary recommendations on any potential development issues.
Case Study 2 Client: Gleeds Services Provided: Site Investigation and Lighting Assessment Site: Avon and Somerset Police REC was commissioned by Gleeds on behalf of Avon and Somerset Constabulary to undertake Site Investigation works and Lighting Assessments at four development sites in the south-west of England. The client wished to develop a number of new police headquarters and site investigation works were required in order to assess the potential for contamination at each of the proposed locations. The scope of the commission included: geotechnical assessment, slope stability assessment, soil and groundwater risk assessment, ground gas assessment, hazardous material surveys, drainage CCTV surveys and asbestos surveys. As a result of the relevant assessments, potential risks to site end users were identified and outline mitigation techniques proposed. This provided the client with a full understanding of the ground conditions at each of the development locations and allowed any necessary remediation works to be included within the construction costings.
Due to the rural nature of a number of the sites concerns had also been raised in regards to potential loss of amenity at nearby properties as a result of light spillage from floodlighting associated with the developments. Baseline Lighting Assessments were therefore undertaken to quantify existing levels across the sites and determine the relevant Environmental Zone. This allowed the maximum increase in lighting levels as a result of the development to be determined for use at the detailed design stage.
Case Study 3 Client: Ladson Group Services Provided: Noise and Air Quality Assessments Site: Tesco, Little Lever, Bolton REC helped secure planning consent for a food store and associated infrastructure in Bolton, Lancashire, generating 100 jobs and bringing a redundant brownfield site into use. Having been commissioned by Ladson Group on behalf of Tesco, REC provided Noise and Air Quality Assessments in support of the development. The site was located close to existing and proposed housing and concerns had been raised by the local council that the store would cause significant impacts on existing amenity levels throughout its operation. A detailed scope of works was produced by REC to address the issues whilst protecting the client's interests from unduly constraining planning conditions. Given the locality of the site within a predominantly residential area, REC were presented with the significant challenge of mitigating potential service yard noise impacts upon local inhabitants. To address this problem, we provided engineering advice for the specification of an acoustic fence in order to meet the local planning authorities' stringent noise criteria, and undertook extensive consultation with the environmental health department to agree acceptable conditions for the developer whilst protecting amenity levels.
Air Quality also presented another issue, with high existing pollution levels close to the site and concerns that traffic generated by the scheme would result in unacceptable amounts of exhaust emissions. We undertook a detailed assessment of the proposed scheme to investigate fully any impacts associated with the development and concluded that impacts would not be significant at any sensitive location. As a result of REC's assessments, the proposed Tesco store obtained a smooth transition through the planning phase, receiving unanimous vote in favour of the development.
Case Study 4 Client: MEPC Services Provided: Air Quality, Noise and Lighting Assessment Site: Milton Park, Didcot REC provided multi-disciplinary environmental assessments in support of a Local Development Order (LDO) application for Milton Park, near Didcot. Owned by MEPC, Milton Park is part of the Science Vale UK Enterprise Zone and one of Europe’s largest multi-use business parks, hosting more than 160 companies, which employ around 6,500 people over its 100hectare site. The park currently has around 2.7 million square feet (250,000 square metres) of employment and other floorspace, and provides high-quality offices, headquarters buildings, laboratories, industrial units and warehousing. The Milton Park LDO will simplify planning control over the next 15-years to give greater flexibility for businesses to develop new premises and facilities or adapt existing premises, whilst maintaining a successful and diverse mix of employment generating uses. Contributing to one of the first LDO applications within the UK, REC provided assessments of baseline air quality, lighting and noise levels in the vicinity of the site. These were then used to identify potential impacts as a result of any future development and produce parameters for inclusion within the LDO. These were designed to ensure all future proposals would not cause
significant environmental effects at sensitive locations, whilst facilitating growth within Milton Park. The parameters proposed by REC have since been included within the LDO which has been formally adopted by the Vale of White Horse District Council.
REC Services Services REC Environmental Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Environmental Air Quality Quality Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Air Odour Assessment Assessment Odour Dispersion Modelling Modelling Dispersion Stack Emissions Emissions Testing Testing Stack Ambient Pollution Pollution Monitoring Monitoring Ambient Geotechnical Investigation Investigation & & Assessment Assessment Geotechnical Contaminated Land Land Investigation Investigation & & Assessment Assessment Contaminated Waste Management Management Waste Due Diligence Diligence & & Compliance Compliance Audit Audit Due Groundwater Testing Testing Groundwater Acoustics, Noise Noise & & Vibration Vibration Acoustics, Sound Insulation Insulation Testing Testing Sound Noise at at Work Work Assessment Assessment Noise Environmental Management Management Environmental Divestment Services Services Divestment
Environmental Management Management Systems Systems Environmental CDM Co-ordinator Co-ordinator CDM Environmental Health Health and and Safety Safety Legal Legal Compliance Compliance Audit Audit Environmental Environmental Permit Permit Application Application Environmental Asbestos Consultancy Consultancy Services Services Asbestos Health and and Safety Safety Training Training Health NEBOSH Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses NEBOSH IOSH Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses IOSH IEMA Accredited Accredited Training Training Courses Courses IEMA CDM Training Training Courses Courses CDM Asbestos Training Training Courses Courses Asbestos Ecology and and Wildlife Wildlife Consultancy Consultancy Ecology Phase 1 1 Habitat Habitat Survey Survey Phase Lighting Impact Impact Assessment Assessment Lighting Flood Risk Risk Assessment Assessment Flood
Manchester
Croydon
Port Talbot
Dundee
Osprey House, Pacific Quay
Capital Business Centre, 22 Carlton
Unit 19, Kenfig Industrial Estate
Unit 1.7, Discovery House
Broadway, Manchester
Road, South Croydon,
Margam, Port Talbot
Gemini Crescent, Dundee
M50 2UE
CR2 0BS
SA13 2PE
DD2 1SW
Tel: 0161 868 1300
Tel: 02034 788 076
Tel: 01656 749 823
Tel: 01382 561 985
Plymouth
Stansted
Birmingham
Northern Ireland
Unit 13, Barn Close, Langage Business
Environment House, Bullocks Lane,
Unit 19, Bordesley Trading Estate
69A Killyman Street, Moy
Park
Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire
Bordesley Green Road, Birmingham
County Tyrone
Plymouth, Devon
CM22 6TA
B8 1BZ
BT71 7EA
Tel: 01279 879 416
Tel: 0121 326 7007
Tel: 02887 789 180
Swindon
Glasgow
Dublin
Southampton
Unit 58, Shrivenham Hundred Business
16 Langlands Place, Kelvin South
Suite 1194, Fitzwilliam Business Centre
Environment House, Segensworth
Park
Business Park, East Kilbride, Glasgow
77 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay
Business Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
Majors Road, Watchfield, Swindon
G75 0YF
Dublin 2
PO15 5RQ
SN6 8TY
Tel: 01355 573 350
Tel: +353 1 640 1817
Tel: 01329 847 783
Tel: 01793 784 935
London
Cardiff
Stirling
85 Tottenham Court Road
Unit 1, Phase 11, Greenmeadow Springs
11 Murchison Park, Stirling Road
London
Business Park, Tongwynlais
Doune, Stirling
W1T 4TQ
Cardiff, Wales, CF15 7AB
FK16 6AY
Tel: 02034 022 352
Tel: 02920 529 822
Tel: 01786 842 676
PL7 5HQ Tel: 0844 461 6735
