At H Fraser Consulting Ltd, we love a challenge – especially when it involves keeping a construction site dry while ticking all the regulatory boxes. One recent project was a Hydrogeological Impact Assessment (HIA) for a residential development that needed dewatering for below-ground construction. Groundwater doesn’t always play nice, but with the right strategy, it can be managed smoothly.
With the Environment Agency’s updated guidance on Hydrogeological Impact Assessments (HIA) published on 13th March 2025, ensuring compliance in groundwater management and dewatering projects is more important than ever. At H Fraser Consulting Ltd, we recently tackled a residential development that required groundwater dewatering for below-ground construction – securing an abstraction licence, discharge permit, and groundwater investigation consent (GIC) along the way.
Understanding groundwater and dewatering constraints
Our first step was a Hydrogeological Impact Assessment to evaluate groundwater conditions and regulatory constraints. We conducted a water features survey, assessing nearby boreholes, wells, and surface water bodies, followed by a test pumping program to determine the required groundwater abstraction volumes. Fortunately, there were no licensed groundwater abstractions within 2 km, and no significant risks to local watercourses. However, we still implemented monitoring and mitigation measures to ensure environmental protection.
Discharge strategy and environmental compliance
The preferred discharge method involved directing groundwater into a nearby river via an existing drain, requiring a discharge permit to regulate flow rates and water quality. Alternative options, such as reinjection wells, were considered but deemed unfeasible due to site constraints.
Securing regulatory approvals
Working closely with the Environment Agency, we successfully secured all required consents, ensuring full compliance and a smooth approval process. With regulatory approvals in place, construction could move forward without groundwater-related delays.
At H Fraser Consulting Ltd, we specialise in Hydrogeological Impact Assessments (HIAs), dewatering solutions, and environmental permitting (discharge consents and abstraction licences. If your project involves groundwater management, get in touch – we’d love to support you in achieving regulatory compliance and planning success.
