Phase 1 Desk Study – Environmental Desktop Reports

Preliminary Site Risk Assessment in the UK 

A Phase 1 Desk Study is an essential first step in assessing land for development. It identifies potential environmental, geological, and contamination risks that could impact planning applications, construction, and land use approval. 

At Earth Environmental, we provide expert Phase 1 Desk Study reports for developers, property buyers, and planning applications across the UK. Our reports are designed to meet local authority requirements and support successful planning approvals. 

Get an Instant Phase 1 Desk Study Report Quote

We offer the following GeoEnvironmental Desk Study reports.

Phase 1 GeoEnvironmental Desk study (With a site walkover survey, ideal for planning applications)£800 +VAT

We offer a fixed price of £800 + VAT for a Comprehensive Desk Study. This includes a site walkover survey of a site that is less than 5 hectares in size.

Phase I GeoEnvironmental Desk study – (Without a site walkover survey but provides essential risk assessment for evaluation)£550 +VAT

A Basic Phase 1 Desk Study report without a site walkover survey would be provided for a fixed price of £550 +VAT

Completion times may vary depending on access to the site and consultation responses from local authorities. 

If you need a Phase 1 Desk Study for a planning application, property transaction, or risk assessment, get an instant Desk Study quote and order online. 

Earth Environmental & Geotechnical provide a wide range of Desk Study services, click here to contact us for further information.

What is a phase 1 desk study report?

A Phase 1 Desk Study is a preliminary risk assessment report for a development site, often required for planning application approval. It gathers historical, geological, and environmental data to determine whether contamination risks, ground stability issues, or environmental hazards could affect development. 

This assessment helps to: 

  • Identify contaminations risks 
  • Assess environmental and geological hazards 
  • Support planning applications 
  • Determine if further investigations are needed (Phase 2 Site Investigation) 

A Phase 1 Desk Study should always be completed before any ground investigation to ensure a clear understanding of the existing site conditions. 

A site walkover survey should also be included as part of a comprehensive Desk Study. This allows an experienced practitioner to assess site conditions in person, confirming any potential risks identified in the desk study. 

What Does Our Phase 1 Desk Study Service Include? 

At Earth Environmental & Geotechnical, we provide a detailed interpretative report that looks at the specific objectives of your proposal and combine that information with the specifics of the proposed development site.  

For example, firstly we review the details of the development proposal. Secondly, we appraise the risk and hazards posed by environmental and geotechnical conditions of the proposed development site. Thirdly, and most importantly, we combine all the information to produce the interpretive report. 

Each Phase 1 Desk Study Report from Earth Environmental & Geotechnical includes: 

  • Historical Land Use Analysis – Reviewing old maps, aerial photographs, and planning records to identify past industrial activity or contamination risks.
  • Geological & Environmental Assessments – Examining soil conditions, hydrogeology, groundwater vulnerability, flood risks, and subsidence potential. 
  • Regulatory & Planning Compliance Checks – Consulting local authority environmental records, contaminated land registers, and coal mining reports where applicable.
  • Site Walkover Survey (if included) – A professional on-site assessment identified within the desk study as potential development issues, environmental and cost liabilities. We also highlight potential remedial options or management considerations.
  • Conceptual Site Model (CSM) – An interpretative summary of potential pollutant linkages and site risks. 

If contamination risks are found as part of the study, the report may recommend a Phase 2 Site Investigation involving physical sampling and testing to confirm the level of risk. 

Why do I need a Phase 1 Desk study Report?

If you are planning on developing a site, you will generally need a Phase 1 Desk Study Report as part of your Planning application set out by the Local Authority Planning Department. 

Or you may be planning on purchasing a property or site for development, as part of the Property Transactions (Due Diligence) it is prudent to complete a Phase 1 Desk Study Report. 

For land buyers and developers, a Phase 1 Desk Study helps identify potential environmental or geotechnical issues before committing to a site, reducing the risk of costly surprises later on down the line. Mortgage lenders and insurers may also request a contamination risk assessment before approving funding. 

Phase 1 Desk Study vs. Phase 2 Site Investigation 

A Phase 1 Desk Study is a non-intrusive, desktop-based assessment, using existing data sources to evaluate risks. 

A Phase 2 Site Investigation goes further by conducting physical testing, such as soil sampling and laboratory analysis, to confirm contamination levels and geotechnical conditions. 

If your Phase 1 Desk Study identifies potential risks, a Phase 2 Investigation may be required before planning permission is granted or development can proceed. 

Can a Phase 1 Desk Study and Site Investigations be Completed at the Same Time? 

For some clients time constraints are very important. Ensuring all the information on the potential risks of a development site, and what steps need to be taken to mitigate the risks can be essential to support a successful development.  

If you have established that your development site may need a Phase 1 Desk study and further Site investigation Earth Environmental can complete these assessments at the same time. 

To discuss your project needs, call us on 0161 975 6088 or contact us online. 

Why Choose Earth Environmental & Geotechnical? 

We have extensive experience in delivering accurate, reliable, and planning compliant Phase 1 Desk Studies and Reports across England, Scotland, and Wales. 

  • Expert-led investigations: Our reports are produced by experienced geotechnical engineers and environmental specialists.
  • Fast turnaround times: Reports available within 1 to 6 working days, depending on the service level chosen.
  • Competitive fixed pricing: No hidden fees or unexpected costs. 

Our team has a proven track record of helping developers, landowners, and investors secure planning approvals and make informed decisions about their sites. Get your Phase 1 Desk Study Report today. Order now or call 0161 975 6088 to speak with an expert. 

What happens when a Phase 1 Desk Study is complete?

Once the Phase 1 Desk Study is complete Earth Environmental will provide you with the risk assessment report via email as a PDF. This can then be submitted to support your planning application, or as part of the Property Transactions (Due Diligence)

If risks have been highlighted in the report further investigations may be required. At Earth Environmental we have a multidisciplined team of qualified engineers, geologists, environmental scientists, drillers and technicians who are experienced in all aspects of ground investigation and remediation works. So if subsequent site investigations, ground investigations and remediation strategy are required we can support all stages of the investigations and provide the solutions to mitigate the risks.

Our staff have extensive experience in the design of geotechnical, mining and environmental site investigations in accordance with current best technical practices and planning guidance. The team are able to manage geotechnical and geo-environmental investigations for the most demanding of sites.

Can a Phase 1 Desk Study and Site Investigations be Completed at the Same Time?

For some clients time constraints are very important. Ensuring all the information on the potential risks of a development site, and what steps need to be taken to mitigate the risks can be essential to support a successful development. If you have established that your development site may need a Phase 1 Desk study and further Site investigation Earth Environmental can complete these assessments at the same time.
This is prudent if you have a tight deadline for a planning application. Call now to discuss with one of our team the best plan of action for your site.

 

Phase 1 Desk Study – FAQs 

Q: What is a Phase 1 Desk Study? 

A: A Phase 1 Desk Study is a preliminary risk assessment that evaluates a site’s historical, environmental, and geological data to identify potential hazards before development. It is often required for planning applications or property transactions as part of due diligence. 

Q: Why is an interpretive report important? 

A: An interpretive report analyses risks, hazards, and potential solutions specific to the development site. Instead of just listing information, it provides actionable insights to help with planning and decision making. 

Q: Do I need a site walkover survey? 

A: A site walkover survey enhances the Phase 1 Desk Study by verifying on site conditions and helps to identify visible contamination risks and confirm potential hazards that historical maps and records may not show. 

Q: What happens after a Phase 1 Desk Study is complete? 

A: Once the Phase 1 Desk Study is complete Earth Environmental will provide you with the risk assessment report via email as a PDF. This can then be submitted to support your planning application, or as part of the Property Transactions (Due Diligence). 

Q: What happens if the site is within a Coal Mining Area? 

A: As part of the Phase 1 Desk Study Earth Environmental will assess your site location and establish as part of the Coal Authority Mining Report if your site is in an area of risk. If the Coal Authority Mining Report indicates that there is a possible risk to ground instability and subsidence, or if we believe there is a potential for unrecorded mines beneath the site or mine entries, a Coal Mining Risk Assessment will be required. 

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When do you need a Phase 1 Desk Study?
Phase 1 Desk Study
Geology plan for desk based study

Typical information gathered as part of the development of a desk based study includes (It should be noted that not all sources of information will be used within every desk study, e.g. coal mining search  not required in non-mining district):

  • Historical Maps
  • Service Search
  • Unexploded Bombs (UXO)
  • Local Authority Search
  • Petroleum Licencing record of fuel tanks/spills
  • Geological Maps, Memoirs and Specialist Reports
  • Previous Site Investigation Information including reports and boreholes
  • River/Sea/Groundwater Flood Maps
  • Radon Potential
  • Soil Quality Mapping
  • BGS Geochemistry Data
  • HSE records of abandoned metalliferous mines
  • MAFF records for burial pits
  • Brine Subsidence
  • Aerial Photographs
  • Active/Closed Landfill Sites
  • Mining Report including Shafts/Adits and Mineworkings
  • Ecological Geographical Based Systems
  • Local Library Archive Records
  • National Monument Records
  • Water Discharge Consents
  • Pollution Incidents
  • Previous Planning Applications
  • Contamination Land Regulations Status
  • Hydrogeological maps and aquifer status
  • Surface and groundwater abstractions
Phase 1 Desk Study Report Example

FAQ

Developing Brownfield Sites Safely

Developing Brownfield Sites Safely

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The UK government’s recent funding initiative to unlock brownfield sites supports the development of thousands of new homes. Developing Brownfield Sites must be done safely and a detailed understanding of exactly what you are building on is essential. A robust geotechnical and geoenvironmental risk assessment and development strategy of the site is one of the first steps to achieve successful housing targets on brownfield sites.
When do you need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

Phase 1 Desk Study For Planning Permission

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Phase 1 Desk Study For Planning Permission If you are planning to develop a site, whether it is a large-scale commercial development, a residential development, or an extension to an existing property,  you will generally need to complete a Phase 1 Desk Study as part of your planning application. With Regional Offices throughout the UK Earth Environmental & Geotechnical work with local and national developers, house builders, local authorities, architects, engineers and private individuals to gather the environmental and geotechnical information they need to complete successful projects.
When do you need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

When do you need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

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When do you need a Phase 1 Desk Study? If you are planning to develop a site, whether it is a large-scale commercial development, a residential development, or an extension to an existing property,  you will generally need to complete a Phase 1 Desk Study as part of your planning application. But when is the ideal time to get the phase 1 desktop report?
Phase 1 Desk Studies Graduate

Soil Logging Courses to Phase 1 Desk Studies

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From Soil Logging Courses to Phase 1 Desk Studies, it’s been an exciting 1st Month as a Geography and Geology, Graduate! Since starting at Earth Environmental & Geotechnical on the 7th September, Bethany’s first few weeks of training have been exciting and extensive. She has already been involved in Phase 1 Desk Study reports and completed several training courses, including soil logging and first aid.
Phase 1 Desk Study Report Example

Do I need a Phase 1 Desk Study?

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Do I need a Phase 1 Desk Study? If you are planning to develop a site you will generally need to complete a Phase 1 Desk Study. A Phase 1 Desktop Study is a preliminary risk assessment which highlights the potential areas of concern of developing on the proposed site. The report will collate and review a wide range of published information about the specific site to gain detailed information of the development sites historical, geological and environmental location.
Senior Geo-environmental Consultant

From Phase 1 Desk Studies to Telecom Mast Installation: Meet the Team Alice Barrington

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Earth Environmental & Geotechnical Head Office Office : Meet the Team Alice Barrington From Phase 1 Desk Studies with site walkovers, Ground Investigations, Coal Mining Risk Assessments to a national programme of Telecom Mast Installations, it's all in a days work for Alice Barrington - Senior Geo-environmental Consultant for Earth Environmental & Geotechnical based at their Head Office in Stockport Greater Manchester.
Development of Brownfield land

Brownfield Land Development is Key to New Housing Targets

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The development of Brownfield land will continue to be a focus for the next few years in the aim to provide much needed housing throughout the UK. The Government hopes to transform unused and derelict buildings, while making the most of brownfield land. Also to tackle the housing shortage in urban areas by enabling commercial premises to be converted into new homes through a fast-track planning permission process.
Earthworks Modelling and Geotechnical Design

Earthworks Modelling and Geotechnical Design : Settle3

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Earth Environmental & Geotechnical have acquired another Rocscience software programme, Settle3, to assist with our clients earthworks modelling and geotechnical design projects. Settle3 is a three-dimensional programme for the analysis of vertical settlement and consolidation under surface loads, such as foundations, embankments and surface excavations.
Radon Monitoring and Detection

Radon Monitoring and Detection : Insitu with Markus 10

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Radon Monitoring and detection is an essential assessment required in risk areas throughout the UK. Earth Environmental & Geotechnical have invested in a MARKUS 10 instrument that allows for in-situ measurement of radon gas in soils. If you are planning a new residential or commercial development the Markus 10 can provide a clear understanding of the radon levels in the soil of your development site and can quickly allow for an informed decision whether the development requires radon mitigation measures.