At Silkstone Environmental, we specialise in delivering comprehensive Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessments (PRAs), also commonly known as Desk Studies, across the UK. These assessments form a crucial first step in understanding the potential geo-environmental risks associated with a site and its suitability for redevelopment, particularly risks relating to land contamination and ground stability.
Whether you're a developer, landowner, planning consultant, or property investor, our Phase 1 studies provide the robust, regulator-approved evidence base needed to progress your project with confidence.
What is a Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment?
A Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment is a desktop-based study designed to evaluate the potential environmental and geo-environmental risks associated with a particular site. It is typically required to support planning applications, discharge contaminated land planning conditions, or as part of due diligence during property acquisition or development.
At Silkstone Environmental, each Preliminary Risk Assessment is conducted by an experienced and appropriately qualified engineer, in line with current UK guidance (such as the Environment Agency's Land Contamination Risk Management (LCRM) framework and in the case of environmental due diligence for property transactions, the RICS Environmental Risks and Global Real Estate, November 2018).
What Does a Preliminary Risk Assessment Include?
Our Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessments are thorough, professional, and tailored to each site. The process includes:
- Historical Land Use Review - We investigate historical maps, records, and aerial photography to understand past activities on and around the site, which may have introduced contamination (e.g., industrial processes, fuel storage, infilled land).
- Site Walkover Survey - One of our experienced engineers visits the site to assess current land use, identify signs of potential contamination (such as stained soils, storage tanks or fly tipping), and evaluate the surrounding environment.
- Geological and Mining Risk Assessment - We analyse the underlying geology and review historical mining activity, including coal or other mineral extraction, which could pose structural or environmental risks.
- Hydrogeological and Hydrological Review - This includes assessment of the site's groundwater vulnerability, proximity to watercourses, and potential for pollutant migration.
- Landfill and Filled Ground Assessment - We determine whether the site is near areas of infilled ground or registered landfills, which could present gas or contamination risks.
- Conceptual Site Model (CSM) - A key output of the assessment, the CSM identifies potential pollution linkages by mapping possible sources of contamination, potential migration pathways (e.g., skin contact or ingestion of soil, groundwater movement or surface water runoff), and receptors (such as humans, water resources, ecology or property).
- Preliminary Risk Evaluation - We assess whether any unacceptable risks exist based on the gathered information, providing clear conclusions and, if necessary, recommendations for further investigation (Phase 2 intrusive investigation).
Why Choose Silkstone Environmental for Preliminary Risk Assessments?
We combine technical expertise with a practical, responsive approach. Our clients trust us to deliver:
- Reports that meet local authority and regulatory standards.
- Clear, jargon-free summaries of complex issues.
- Prompt turnaround times to keep your project moving.
- Competitive pricing with no compromise on quality.
Whether you are planning a residential development, commercial redevelopment, or land acquisition, our Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessments provide the necessary insight to make informed and confident decisions.