New housing, Linwood

Challenge

The regeneration of this former industrial site in Linwood for Sanctuary Housing Association required a complex, multi-phase programme of remediation before the construction of a major social housing development could begin.

This five acre former foundry and chemical works was surrounded by residential units. Site investigations revealed that the soil was contaminated with high concentrations of volatile and semi-volatile hydrocarbons.  ERS therefore faced the challenge of remediating the site in a timely and cost-efficient way without posing a nuisance to neighbours or a health hazard to workers or the general public.

Solution

Following site investigations undertaken by ERS, an appraisal of available options was undertaken.  Ex situ augmented biopiles were selected as offering the most effective choice for the main remediation works, supported by additional groundwater treatment. 

An intensive regime of dust and odour suppression, with on-site and boundary monitoring, was instigated to ensure that safety and nuisance concerns were addressed from the outset. ERS also deployed weather monitoring systems to forecast the likely impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Outcome

• 20,000 cubic metres of soil were successfully remediated for re-use on the site.
• 500,000 litres of contaminated water were successfully treated.
• The project maintained acceptable exposure levels for site staff.
• Ambient air quality standards were maintained within predetermined levels at the site boundary.