Client: North East Derbyshire District Council
Location: Former Lead Mill and Dye Works
Service Provided: Part 2A Site Inspection, Risk Assessment, and Land Quality Evaluation
Background to Past 2A Investigation
H Fraser Consulting Ltd was commissioned by North East Derbyshire District Council to undertake a Part 2A contaminated land investigation at a residential cottage situated on the site of a former lead mill and dye works. The property lies in a steep valley, bordered by a river and surrounded by fields and woodland. The area was historically impacted by lead contamination, raising concerns regarding risks to residents, controlled waters, and livestock.
Objective to determine the land as contaminated, or not?
The primary aim was to determine whether the site should be designated as Contaminated Land under Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 by:
- Assessing soil and water contamination levels.
- Evaluating potential risks to human health, controlled waters, and livestock.
- Providing clear, evidence-based recommendations to the Local Authority.
Methodology undertaken by H Fraser Consulting
The investigation was undertaken in two phases:
Phase 1: Initial Desk Study Assessment
- Soil and Leachate Sampling: Collected from various parts of the site, focusing on suspected hotspots.
- Surface Water and Vegetation Sampling: To assess potential contamination spread.
- Bioavailability Testing: Measured bioaccessible lead in soils.
Phase 2 Site Investigation: Detailed Risk Assessment
- Conceptual Site Model: Mapped contamination pathways and receptors.
- Human Health Risk Assessment: Evaluated potential risks based on soil lead concentrations and bioavailability.
- Controlled Waters Risk Assessment: Examined potential impacts on the adjacent river and underlying Coal Measures aquifer.
- Supplementary Investigations: Hotspot sampling, blood lead testing of residents and poultry, and livestock risk assessment.
Key Findings of the contaminated land assessment
- Soil Contamination: Elevated concentrations of lead were identified, particularly in isolated hotspots. However, bioaccessibility was found to be very low.
- Human Health: Blood lead tests for residents confirmed no significant health risks from exposure to soils.
- Controlled Waters: The risk to the nearby river and aquifer was assessed as low, with contaminant transport expected to take thousands of years.
- Livestock and Poultry:
- Two poultry deaths were attributed to lead poisoning; poultry keeping was not advised.
- Horses grazing on the site showed no adverse effects, though cautious management of grazing was recommended.
Conclusion & Recommendations
Through a robust contaminated land investigation and risk assessment, H Fraser Consulting Ltd provided clear evidence that:
- There was no significant risk to human health.
- Controlled waters were not at significant risk.
- Local Authority concerns under Part 2A were addressed, ensuring regulatory compliance while avoiding unnecessary remediation.
This case study demonstrates the importance of bioavailability testing, targeted risk assessment, and evidence-led recommendations in managing complex contaminated land scenarios.
Why Choose H Fraser Consulting Ltd for contaminated land assessment?
This project highlights H Fraser Consulting’s ability to deliver independent, scientifically robust, and practical advice to both regulators and property owners. Our expertise in contaminated land risk assessment ensures that decisions are based on evidence, balancing environmental protection with proportionate solutions.
If you need specialist support with contaminated land surveys or Part 2A assessments, H Fraser Consulting Ltd is a trusted partner to guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Why not contact us now?
