Phase 1 Environmental Assessments (Phase 1 ESA) are crucial for managing risk in commercial real estate deals. Our London Partner team can help you start this process. A Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment, also known as a Desk Study or Stage 1 Risk Assessment, analyses potential contamination sources to determine the risk at a site. It provides a basis for further investigations if needed. During due diligence, we consider the environmental conditions and potential risks to people involved in construction, end users, and the building itself. This involves desk studies, analysing historical and geological maps, and collecting environmental data on ground conditions, hydrology, and local features.
The Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment evaluates on and off-site contamination risks and their potential impact on the site and users. This assessment involves gathering all available site information to create a ‘Conceptual Site Model’.
The Conceptual Site Model (UK EPA Part 2A) is a simple explanation, written or diagrammatic, of sources (where contamination comes from, e.g., past industrial activity), pathways (how contamination travels, e.g., through soil or groundwater), and receptors (organisms affected, e.g., people).
Additional municipality, province, and UK government agencies about London, England Phase 1 Environmental Assessment can be obtained from the following resources:
Here are some factors that differentiate ESAs in London:
Historical Land Use: London’s rich history means that many sites have undergone various land uses over centuries. This historical land use can present challenges in assessing potential contamination, as previous industrial activities or landfills might have left behind pollutants.
Urban Redevelopment: London, as a dynamic urban center, undergoes continuous redevelopment projects. Assessing sites for potential contamination becomes crucial, especially when repurposing Brownfield Sites or old industrial areas for new construction or infrastructure projects.
Transportation & Infrastructure: London’s extensive transportation network, including roads, railways, and underground systems, can impact environmental assessments. Underground storage tanks, for instance, might be present along transportation corridors, posing potential contamination risks.
Underground Infrastructure: London’s extensive underground network, including buried fuel tanks and historical infrastructure, adds another layer of complexity to site assessments.
River Thames: The River Thames flows through London, historically serving as a vital transportation route and industrial area. Sites located near the river or its tributaries may have unique contamination risks related to historical industrial activities and runoff.
UK Regulatory Framework: London follows the UK regulatory framework for environmental assessments, primarily governed by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and associated guidance documents. This differs from the ASTM E1527 standard commonly used in the US.
Contaminated Land Register: The UK maintains a Contaminated Land Register (CLR) identifying sites with confirmed or potential contamination. This readily available resource aids in identifying potential risks during record reviews.
Brownfield Redevelopment: London actively promotes brownfield redevelopment, requiring careful consideration of potential contamination and remediation costs during property transactions.
Cultural Heritage Sites: London is home to numerous cultural heritage sites and protected areas. Assessments need to consider the potential impact of contamination on these sites and adhere to strict regulations to preserve London’s cultural heritage.
Population Density: London’s high population density means that contamination risks can have significant implications for public health. Assessments must consider potential exposure pathways for residents and workers in densely populated areas.
Global Financial Hub: As a global financial hub, London attracts significant investment in commercial real estate and infrastructure projects. ESAs play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and safety of these investments by identifying and mitigating potential environmental risks.
Climate Change Considerations: With increasing concerns about climate change, ESAs in London may need to assess potential risks such as flooding, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events. Understanding how climate change may impact contamination risks is becoming increasingly important in environmental assessments.
Community Engagement: London’s diverse communities and active civil society mean that community engagement is often a key aspect of environmental assessments. Consulting with local communities and stakeholders can provide valuable insights into site history, concerns, and potential contamination issues.
