Site Investigation For New Works

the basic objective of this form of site investigation is to collect systematically and record all the necessary data which will be needed or will help in the design and construction processes of the proposed work. The collected data should be presented in the form of fully annotated and dimensioned plans and sections. Anything on adjacent sites which may affect the proposed works or conversely anything appertaining to the proposed works which may affect an adjacent site should also be recorded. Procedures 1 . Desk study 2. Field study or walk-over survey 3. Laboratory analysis Desk Study ~ collection of known data, to include: • Ordnance Survey maps † historical and modern, note grid reference. • Geological maps † subsoil types, radon risk. • Site history † green-field/brown-field. • Previous planning applications/approvals. • Current planning applications in the area. • Development restrictions † conservation orders. • Utilities † location of services on and near the site. • Aerial photographs. • Ecology factors † protected wildlife. • Local knowledge † anecdotal information/rights of way. • Proximity of local land fill sites † methane risk. Field Study ~ intrusive visual and physical activity to: • Establish site characteristics from the desk study. • Assess potential hazards to health and safety. • Appraise surface conditions: * Trees † preservation orders. * Topography and geomorphological mapping. • Appraise ground conditions: * Water table. * Flood potential † local water courses and springs. * Soil types. * Contamination † vegetation die-back. * Engineering risks † ground subsidence, mining, old fuel tanks. * Financial risks † potential for the unforeseen. • Take subsoil samples and conduct in-situ tests. • Consider the need for subsoil exploration, trial pits and bore holes. • Appraise existing structures: * Potential for re-use/refurbishment. * Archaeological value/preservation orders. * Demolition † costs, health issues e.g. asbestos.

Site Analysis

Prior to purchasing a building site it is essential to conduct a thorough survey to ascertain whether the site characteristics suit the development concept. The following guidance forms a basic checklist: * Refer to Ordnance Survey maps to determine adjacent features, location,roads,facilities,footpaths and rights of way. * Conduct a measurement survey to establish site dimensions and levels. * Observe surface characteristics, i.e. trees, steep slopes, existing buildings, rock outcrops, wells. * Inquire of local authority whether preservation orders affect the site and if it forms part of a conservation area. * Investigate subsoil. Use trial holes and boring to determine soil quality and water table level. * Consider flood potential, possibilities for drainage of water table, capping of springs, filling of ponds, diversion of streams and rivers. * Consult local utilities providers for underground and overhead services, proximity to site and whether they cross the site. * Note suspicious factors such as filled ground, cracks in the ground, subsidence due to mining and any cracks in existing buildings. * Regard neighbour scale and character of buildings with respect to proposed new development. * Decide on best location for building (if space permits) with regard to `cut and fill', land slope, exposure to sun and prevailing conditions, practical use and access.