A closed landfill site had been used as a waste repository adjacent to a chalk pit and cement works, on the banks of a main river. The operator was concerned about potential leakage into the surface water from the unlined landfill. Routine monitoring had identified contaminants in a stream on the landfill boundary, which discharged to the river. Hydrocarbons, sulphate and ammonia were among the contaminants of concern.
Hydrogeological and hydrological characterisation included a review of historical land use as a salt pan. The investigation concluded that the site was poorly controlled and improvements were recommended to provide additional protection. Nevertheless, it could be concluded that the risks to the river were not significant.
