Latest news with #EnvironmentalProtectionAct1990
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
How Effective Remediation Increases Land Value in Basingstoke
In an age where land is a premium asset, particularly in growth-focused towns like Basingstoke, the question of how to unlock the full value of underutilised or contaminated land has never been more relevant. One powerful, often overlooked strategy is land remediation. For developers, investors, and landowners alike, land remediation in Basingstoke offers a practical and profitable route to significantly increase the value of land — transforming unusable plots into high-demand development opportunities. This article explores how effective land remediation boosts land value, why it matters in Basingstoke's evolving property market, and how working with a trusted company like Complete Soil Solutions can help you maximise both environmental and financial returns. Land remediation is the process of cleaning up contaminated land so it can be used safely for its intended purpose — be it residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational. This involves the identification, containment, removal, or neutralisation of hazardous substances in soil and groundwater. In Basingstoke, remediation is often required on: Former industrial or factory sites Fuel stations or depots Brownfield sites Agricultural land with a history of chemical use Locations with known environmental incidents These areas may contain pollutants such as hydrocarbons, asbestos, heavy metals, pesticides, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that pose risks to human health and the environment. As a thriving Hampshire town with strong commuter links to London, Basingstoke has seen increasing demand for housing, logistics space, and sustainable commercial developments. However, much of the undeveloped land available sits on contaminated or disused plots — often brownfield sites that are undervalued due to their environmental constraints. Without remediation, these plots cannot be legally or safely developed. This limits their usability and marketability, keeping land values artificially low. By remediating such sites, landowners unlock access to lucrative markets and can convert 'problem plots' into premium real estate. One of the most immediate ways remediation increases land value is by bringing land into compliance with planning and environmental regulations. In Basingstoke, as in the rest of the UK, contaminated land is subject to regulation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and planning policy frameworks. Local authorities and the Environment Agency require: Phase 1 Desk Studies Phase 2 Site Investigations Full Remediation Plans (if needed) Validation Reports proving that remediation was successful Only once a site is declared 'suitable for use' can it move forward through the planning and development pipeline. Remediated land thus becomes a viable, compliant asset — often attracting higher purchase prices and more interest from developers. Contaminated land presents a major risk to potential buyers or developers — not just from a health and safety perspective, but financially. Unknown remediation costs, legal liabilities, and delays in obtaining planning consent make such plots unappealing. Once remediated, however, land becomes: Easier to sell or lease More attractive to institutional investors or developers Suitable for residential, commercial, or public sector use Eligible for mortgages and insurance In Basingstoke's dynamic real estate market, remediated plots are often sold at a significant premium compared to contaminated ones — purely because the barriers to development are removed. Contaminated sites are usually limited in how they can be used due to health and environmental risks. For example, a polluted site might be barred from residential development or schools but could be used for light industrial storage. Through effective land remediation, developers can: Change the use class to allow for higher-value developments (e.g., residential housing, mixed-use commercial) Increase build density with fewer restrictions Access additional revenue streams from land sales or long-term leases In Basingstoke, residential plots command much higher values per square metre than light industrial or vacant land. By upgrading the land's classification through remediation, owners can boost their return on investment substantially. Public perception plays a key role in land value. Contaminated sites often carry a stigma — they're seen as dirty, unsafe, or complex to manage. Even if a developer is interested, concerns from neighbours, planning officers, or environmental groups can delay or derail projects. Effective land remediation in Basingstoke helps to: Eliminate environmental stigma Improve relationships with planners and local authorities Rebrand the site as a viable, clean development zone Attract higher quality buyers, tenants, or business partners In short, remediation helps reposition the land in the marketplace — increasing not just its legal worth but also its perceived and brand value. For investors or landowners planning to hold land as a long-term asset, remediation adds intrinsic value. Clean, certified land holds its value better, is easier to develop when market conditions improve, and can be resold with fewer restrictions. Benefits include: Reduced liability over time Improved exit strategies Higher rental yield potential Ability to use land as security for loans or joint ventures Especially in Basingstoke, where long-term growth is supported by infrastructure investment and economic development plans, remediated land represents a future-proof investment. Increasingly, land value is linked not just to size or location, but also to sustainability credentials. Clean, responsibly developed land is more appealing to: Eco-conscious developers and buyers Local authorities focused on green initiatives ESG-focused investment funds Land remediation aligns with Basingstoke's push for sustainable growth by: Reducing pressure on greenbelt land Making urban regeneration more viable Supporting community health and safety Preparing land for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), renewable energy, and green buildings Thus, remediation enhances value in a modern, ethical sense as well as financial. When undertaking any kind of remediation, working with a qualified and experienced contractor is essential. Complete Soil Solutions is a leading provider of land remediation services in Basingstoke, offering end-to-end support from initial investigation to full site clearance and validation. Their services include: Phase 1 & Phase 2 Contaminated Land Surveys Soil and groundwater testing Remediation strategy design On-site treatment or removal of pollutants Validation reports for planning submissions By using advanced technology and adhering to current environmental regulations, Complete Soil Solutions helps landowners achieve fast, cost-effective, and reliable remediation — ultimately transforming land into a high-value, market-ready asset. Contaminated or underutilised land might seem like a burden at first glance, but with the right remediation strategy, it becomes a valuable opportunity. For anyone involved in development, investment, or landholding in Basingstoke, remediation offers a path to higher land values, better planning outcomes, and long-term financial gains. Land remediation in Basingstoke is not just about compliance—it's a smart investment decision that enables sustainable growth, attracts quality development, and unlocks economic potential. With support from expert contractors like Complete Soil Solutions, landowners can confidently convert problematic sites into premium development assets. If you're sitting on land with potential, remediation is your key to unlocking its true value. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Wales Online
04-06-2025
- Politics
- Wales Online
Fly-tipper's terrible excuse for waste dumped at picnic spot
Fly-tipper's terrible excuse for waste dumped at picnic spot The driver of a van seen in the area was tracked down - and gave a terrible explanation for how the waste ended up at the beauty spot The waste found illegally dumped near Mosshouse reservoir in Neath (Image: Neath Port Talbot Council ) A van driver has been fined after waste from a bathroom refurbishment project was found fly-tipped near a picnic area and beauty spot, a court has heard. The driver was located after detective work by council officers The defendant has been fined £153 but been ordered to pay another £1,500 in prosecution costs. A councillor has thanked the members of the public who provided information on the case for their "community-spirited action". Swansea Magistrates Court heard the waste was discovered on October 18, 2022, near the Mosshouse Woods reservoir off Fairyland Road in Neath when a number of people who knew the area as a fly-tipping hotspot became suspicious of the activities of a tipper-style van. At the reservoir picnic site the eagle-eyed members of the public found bathroom fittings and furniture including a broken toilet, a sink, and shower screens along with other items had been dumped. They passed on the information to Neath Port Talbot Council's waste enforcement team. The court heard an investigation by council officers traced the dumped waste to a house which had undergone a bathroom refurbishment, and the officers also then located the owner of the van seen near the reservoir. Article continues below The owner said at the time of the offence the vehicle was being used by a man called Richard Holland who was spoken to and who later attended an interview at Neath Civic Centre. For the latest court reports sign up to our crime newsletter During the interview Holland accepted he was in control the van on the day in question but denied dumping the waste claiming he had taken it to a skip. He told the officers: "Someone must have placed the waste back in the vehicle from the skip and travelled to the location and deposited it". Richard Marc Holland, aged 47, of Jersey Road, Bonymaen, Swansea, had previously pleaded guilty to an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 when the case returned to court to be sentenced. The defendant was fined £153 and was ordered to pay £1,500 in prosecution costs along with a £61 victim surcharge. The court heard that though the defendant was not seen depositing the waste, section 33 of the 1990 act establishes that the person in control of a vehicle carrying controlled waste is considered to be knowingly causing the waste to be deposited - even without direct instructions - if the waste is deposited from the vehicle. This means that the person in control of the vehicle is held responsible for the waste's illegal deposit, regardless of whether he or she personally gave the order for the waste to be deposited. Speaking after the sentencing councillor Scott Jones, Neath Port Talbot Council's cabinet member for street scene, said: "I'd like to thank the members of the public for their community-spirited action in initially bringing this matter to our attention. "Fly tipping is a crime against our environment and we will pursue a prosecution either in court or via a fixed penalty notice. We take this nationwide issue extremely seriously and will continue to have a zero-tolerance approach." Article continues below
Daily Mirror
03-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Gardeners warned about destructive plant 'as bad as knotweed'
Gardening experts have raised concerns about this seemingly innocent-looking plant which can cause "significant damage" to buildings Buddleia might add a dash of colour to UK gardens, but these purple plants have already caused significant distress about their potential to cause considerable damage to properties. Experts fear that the plant, which is also known as the "butterfly bush", can be problematic for homeowners and some have already equated its level of threat to another notorious horticultural hazard, Japanese knotweed. Environmental Controls, a company specialising in removing invasive weeds, has warned homeowners regarding the often underestimated dangers of buddleia. Beloved for its attractive blooms, the plant is notorious for tearing through buildings, exploiting any weakness, such as cracks and fragile mortar, similar to the feared knotweed. Speaking on the matter, company spokesman Jennifer Holmes said: "Both buddleia and knotweed can cause significant damage to building structures, however buddleia is less likely to damage underground infrastructure due to its shallow root system. "Both are highly invasive and difficult to eradicate, but buddleia (unlike knotweed) can grow in hard to access areas such as roofs, guttering, window sills and walls – basically anywhere that a seed lands it can grow. Knotweed, on the other hand, requires its roots to be on the ground in order to form plants, and quickly spreads." Jennifer pointed out that buddleia's rapid growth, reaching heights up to 15 feet – dwarfing Japanese knotweed – should be of significant concern for those owning property. Despite these warnings, buddleia remains unlisted on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, thus UK residents are still at liberty to plant it in their gardens, reports Devon Live. Experts are warning homeowners to be vigilant for the aggressive plant, particularly if it's not a controlled garden plant. Keep an eye out for it sprouting from neglected corners of roofs and walls where it flourishes unnoticed, and tackle eradication before it takes root. Japanese knotweed is subject to stringent legal controls due to its invasive nature and potential to cause property damage. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is an offence to plant or cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild. Property owners are legally obliged to prevent the spread of Japanese knotweed from their land to neighbouring properties. Japanese knotweed is classified as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Its disposal must adhere to specific regulations to prevent environmental contamination. The presence of Japanese knotweed can impact property sales and mortgage approvals. Sellers are required to disclose its presence, and failure to do so can lead to legal repercussions. Effective management often requires professional treatment over several years. DIY removal is discouraged due to the plant's resilience and the risk of spreading.
Daily Mirror
01-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Exact times you can legally mow your garden lawn on weekend without facing fine
People will be out in their gardens mowing the lawn, but there are exact times you can legally do it without facing a fine - and there are different rules for weekdays and weekends As 'No Mow May' has come to an end, garden enthusiasts can dust off their lawn mowers for the season's first trim. However, they're being warned to watch the clock when it comes to weekend gardening or risk facing fines of up to £5,000. Local authorities have the power to penalise those who disrupt the peace by mowing at unsociable hours, with potential Noise Abatement Notices on the cards if your grass-cutting grates on the neighbours. During the week, firing up the mower between 8am and 8pm is generally fine, but come the weekend, it's best to keep it between 9am and 7pm to avoid any trouble, reports the Express. East Coast Fencing advises: "Most people naturally opt for weekends to complete household and garden chores, including mowing the lawn. However, weekends are also when noise complaints tend to rise as families aim to relax or catch up on sleep. To prevent frustrations, pay extra attention to the timing of your mowing on Saturdays and Sundays. "On weekdays, acceptable mowing hours typically range from around 8am to 8pm in residential areas. This range takes into account workers who may need to start their lawns early before their workday or later in the evening upon returning home. Weekday allowances are often slightly more flexible compared to weekends. "During weekends, stricter noise rules may apply due to the majority of residential homes being occupied throughout the day. For instance, many councils recommend no lawn mowing before 9am on Saturdays and 10am on Sundays, with a cut-off time of 7pm. These specific timings may vary depending on local council noise regulations, so checking their advice is strongly recommended. "There is no nationwide restriction on when individuals may cut their grass; however, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance." Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, explains: "Non-compliance with an abatement notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 for domestic premises. This is not an empty threat - these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them. "To be more precise, noise that is excessive, unreasonable, and persistent, particularly during unsociable hours, can result in abatement notices, fines up to £5,000, and in some cases, even prosecution. "Avoid very early or late hours. Generally speaking, it's safest to operate noisy tools between 9am and 7pm. Notify neighbours in advance of using machinery like hedge trimmers or pressure washers. Opt for quieter tools where possible. "Limit duration and avoid back-to-back noisy days, especially on weekends. Consider your neighbours' specific circumstances (e.g., shift workers, infants), and adjust accordingly."
Leader Live
30-05-2025
- Leader Live
Moel Famau fly-tippers fined following investigation
It comes following an investigation led by Fly-Tipping Action Wales, in conjunction with Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Barhan Fakraden, 38, and Paige Brittles, 27, both from Ruthin, pleaded guilty to offences under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The case was heard at Llandudno Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (May 27). The court imposed Band D fines on both defendants, with Ms Brittles ordered to pay a total of £938. Mr Fakraden received a higher penalty of £1,830 and both were ordered to repay the amounts in monthly instalments of £100. The fly-tipping incident came to light on November 11, 2024, when a Ranger from Dee Valley National Landscape discovered six bags of dumped waste on NRW-managed land at Moel Famau. The bags were retrieved and taken to Loggerheads Country Park, where identifying materials were found among the rubbish – including packaging and personal items linking the waste to the two defendants. Following initial contact from NRW officers, both individuals failed to attend voluntary interviews at Denbigh Police Station. They were later issued with statutory notices requiring them to attend on December 19, 2024. During these formal interviews, neither could give a satisfactory explanation as to how their waste ended up at the site. TOP STORIES TODAY While both claimed that a business had been contracted to remove their rubbish, it was discovered that the supposed arrangement only began on the day of the interviews, casting doubt on their statements. Neil Harrison, team leader for Fly-tipping Action Wales, said: 'Fly-tipping is a criminal offence that damages our environment, costs taxpayers money, and puts people and wildlife at risk. "This successful prosecution sends a clear message that we take these incidents seriously and will not hesitate to take action against those who show such disregard for our natural places. "We'd like to thank our partners at Dee Valley National Landscape and North Wales Police for their support in this investigation.'
