Contaminated land

In common with other parts of London, past uses have left a legacy on the condition of the land and water in Hackney. Generally contamination may have occurred as a result of:

• past commercial and residential uses
• successive phases of development, redevelopment and maintenance
• transport emissions
• events such as the Blitz bombing during the Second World War

Addressing contaminated land in Hackney

About a quarter of the borough’s land has been used in ways that could have resulted in contamination. These land uses have had effects on the soil and the shallow groundwater.

Due to previous land uses, it is common to find higher levels of certain chemicals in the soil in urban areas like Hackney, rather than in rural areas. These chemicals include lead and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (a component of ash). Materials such as asbestos may also be found in the ground. Asbestos may be present due to use in construction and fireproofing.

It is important to recognise that the levels of these, and other substances, may be harmful in only a small proportion of cases.

We address instances of contaminated land as they occur. These issues are mostly dealt with during the planning process. Statutory regimes capture the remaining issues. These regimes are for contaminated land and environmental damage.

We aim to help residents who have concerns about contamination. We do this by providing clear information and guidance. The information helps residents to understand how we manage contaminated land.

Contaminated land – planning and building

We have a statutory role in managing contaminated land. This includes mitigating the health risks associated with contamination. Land contamination can be encountered during development and is often addressed in the planning process. This process helps ensure that land is investigated and, if necessary, remediated. This helps ensure that new developments are suitable for use. Suitable use means that the land is not a risk to the health of the occupants and is not harming the environment. See Contaminated land – planning and building.

The contaminated land regime

Statutory contaminated land is land that meets the definition of contaminated land as set out within Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. See Contaminated land regime.

Advice, guidance and searches

The following guidance is aimed at residents, allotment holders, schools and businesses:

Environmental Information Regulations (EIR)

The Environmental Information Regulations 2004 provides public access to environmental information held by public authorities.

For further information on EIR, visit Information Commissioner’s Office – What are the Environmental Information Regulations?