Land contamination is usually caused by previous industrial or commercial use or major waste deposits.
Contaminants may include heavy metals, organic substances and other compounds which may be harmful to people or the environment.
If you are redeveloping brownfield or potentially contaminated land in the borough, the planning process requires you to submit a land quality assessment.
Government legislation
Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 is the legal framework for dealing with contaminated land.
The Environmental Protection team consult on the redevelopment of contaminated land and enforce legislation relating to contaminated land.