Environmental Permitting
Ground Risk & Site Investigation
Integrated geotechnical and environmental assessment to support confident, compliant and commercially sound development
Every development begins with a fundamental question: “Is this site suitable, safe and ready for construction?”
Ground conditions, contamination and environmental constraints can introduce uncertainty, cost and delay — particularly during planning and early design. Arthian’s Ground Risk & Site Investigation service provides a structured, coordinated approach that brings together geotechnical engineering, contaminated land assessment and environmental investigation into a single, coherent process.
Whether you are preparing a planning submission, assessing land for acquisition, or progressing detailed design, we deliver the clarity and technical assurance required to make informed decisions and maintain programme momentum.
Site Investigation Solutions – How Arthian Can Help
At Arthian, we offer a comprehensive site investigation solution, which includes:
Clear guidance on required surveys and investigations
Determining whether a site requires a Phase 1 Desk Study, Phase 2 Intrusive Investigation, Ground Investigation (GI) or a combination can be challenging. We provide precise, project‑specific guidance to ensure that all investigations are proportionate, compliant and aligned with planning expectations.
Confidence before committing to design or land purchase
Ground risk is one of the most significant drivers of unforeseen cost. We provide early‑stage clarity on constraints, enabling informed commercial decisions and reducing the likelihood of costly redesign later in the programme.
Planning conditions discharged efficiently
Local authorities frequently request revisions where reports lack clarity or do not follow recognised standards. Our outputs are structured in accordance with BS 5930, BS 10175, LCRM and local planning requirements, supporting smooth and timely approvals.
A coordinated, efficient investigation programme
Separate geotechnical and contaminated land investigations often lead to duplicated drilling, sampling and mobilisation. We integrate both disciplines into a single investigation strategy, reducing cost, minimising disruption and improving data consistency.
Practical, commercially focused recommendations
Clients require clear, actionable advice — not lengthy reports without direction. We provide concise, outcome‑focused recommendations that support design development, procurement and construction planning.
Integrated Ground Risk Services – Geotechnical Investigation & Assessment
We assess the physical behaviour of the ground to support safe, efficient and compliant design.
Our geotechnical capability includes:
- Ground investigation design and delivery
- Foundation and earthworks assessment
- Slope stability and retaining structures
- Piling platform design and verification
- Temporary works and construction support
- Coal mining risk assessments
- GIR, GDR and RfG reporting
These services provide the technical foundation for robust engineering design and construction planning.
Integrated Ground Risk Services – Contaminated Land & Environmental Assessment
We identify and manage risks to human health, controlled waters and the wider environment.
Our contaminated land services include:
- Phase 1 Desk Study (Preliminary Risk Assessment)
- Phase 2 Intrusive Investigation
- Contaminated land risk assessment
- Ground gas and vapour monitoring
- Remediation strategy and verification
- Waste classification and materials management
- Brownfield redevelopment support
These assessments support planning submissions, regulatory engagement and safe, sustainable development.
How the Arthian Team Works With You
Early‑stage strategic advice
We begin by understanding your development objectives, planning context and site constraints. This ensures that all investigations are targeted, proportionate and aligned with your programme.
Integrated site investigation
Our geotechnical and geoenvironmental specialists collaborate from the outset, sharing data and insights to build a complete, accurate understanding of ground conditions.
Planning‑ready reporting
We produce clear, regulator‑aligned reports that support planning applications, design decisions and contractor pricing.
Practical, cost‑effective solutions
We outline the implications of our findings and provide clear next steps — whether that involves foundation design, remediation, or further assessment.
Support Starts Here
You may require ground risk support if:
- You are preparing a planning application
- You are purchasing or disposing of land
- You are designing foundations, earthworks or retaining structures
- You are working on a brownfield or former industrial site
- You have been asked to provide a Phase 1 or Phase 2
- You need clarity on contamination or geotechnical constraints
- You want to minimise the risk of unforeseen costs during construction
At Arthian, we help teams in a range of industries and sectors with ground investigation projects. From commercial developers and contractors, to design teams and local authorities, planning consultants, landowners, asset managers, industrial, infrastructure and utilities clients and everyone in between, our team can help. Get in touch today.
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