A desk study, also called a Phase 1 desk study or preliminary risk assessment, is the first stage of any ground investigation. It reviews a site’s history, geology and surroundings to identify potential contamination and geotechnical risks before any intrusive work begins. At GIP, we produce desk study reports aligned to the Environment Agency’s Land Contamination Risk Management (LCRM) framework, giving you a clear Phase 1 assessment that supports planning applications and informs the site investigation that follows.
A Phase 1 desk study is usually required to support a planning application on brownfield or previously developed land, and is the recommended first step before any site investigation or development on greenfield sites. Identifying risk at this stage is far cheaper than discovering it once work is underway.
Whether you’re assessing a site for development, infrastructure upgrades, or environmental impact, our desk studies give you the confidence to move forward. With over 40 years of experience, GIP’s consultancy team ensures your project is built on a solid foundation of knowledge and compliance.
Contact us today to discuss how our desk study services can support your project’s success.
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