Historical legacy of contamination
The problems of contaminated land are not new. Evidence suggests that land uses dating back to Roman times may have been responsible for causing some of the contamination we see today. More recently, Leeds has been home to many industries including chemical works, gas works, textile mills, leather tanning, glassworks, potteries and brick works. The disposal of waste within the ground (landfilling) has also taken place in the district. These types of land uses all have the potential to cause contamination.
What is contaminated land?
A statutory (legal) definition of contaminated land was introduced for the first time in the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This definition is complex and technical. In simple terms, contaminated land is land that poses a significant risk to people, underground waters, surface waters, ecological systems or property due to the chemicals or other substances contained within it.
What legislation is available to deal with contaminated land?
New laws have been introduced to identify and clean up contaminated land. These laws means that we must inspect the Leeds area for contaminated land. If we find any we must take steps to reduce the risks to an acceptable level.
We prepared and published an inspection strategy in June 2001. This sets out how contaminated land will be investigated in the district. The strategy reflects the aims of the council to protect the health of the citizens of Leeds, prevent the pollution of groundwaters and surface waters and to prevent damage to ecological systems, buildings and other property due to the effects of contaminated land.
Where can I get further information about the contaminated land inspection strategy?
We began to carry out this inspection strategy in July 2001. You can download a free copy of this document from the link on this page or order a paper copy (price £24.00) from us. We also publish progress reviews each year and you can download them from this page.
Contact
Contaminated Land Team
Minerals and Waste Planning Group
Sustainable Development Unit
Development Department
The Leonardo Building
2 Rossington Street
Leeds LS2 8HD
Fax: 0113 2476484
Or contact us by email from the link on this page.