Changes to land contamination rules set out how radioactive contaminated land should be dealt with. The changes came into force on 4 August and set out how radioactive contaminated land should be dealt with by the Environment Agency and local authorities.
Contaminated land legislation and guidance, previously did not cover land contaminated with radioactivity but they have now been modified.
David Bennett, Strategic Policy Manager for Radioactive Substances Regulation at the Environment Agency said: "From 4 August, changes to Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 will mean the Environment Agency has an important role to play in helping local authorities decide whether land is radioactively contaminated.
He continued, "Local authorities will need to be satisfied that there is enough relevant information available to indicate the land is potentially contaminated before they carry out an initial study. To help them where they do decide to proceed, we have produced some new guidance. If their initial investigations suggest there may be contamination at specified levels, the case is then referred to the Environment Agency to carry out more detailed tests."
Based on test results and its own investigations, local authorities have the final decision on whether the land is contaminated and to be classified as a ‘special site’. If a ‘special site’, the Environment Agency has the responsibility to ensure the land is remediated.
Previously there was no legal basis for requiring such land to be investigated or remediated. Radioactive contaminated land was either dealt with on a voluntary basis or, if the site was being redeveloped, planning controls may require this.
Mr Bennet added, "We look forward to working with local authorities in order to ensure radioactive contaminated land that falls under the changes is identified and remediated. Anyone concerned about radioactive contaminated land should contact their local authority for advice".