Desk Studies

We undertake desk studies to support planning applications on behalf of our Clients. The process is low-cost but offers a high-value return through the early identification of geotechnical and geo-environmental hazards.

The desk study findings then inform the design of intrusive ground investigation works to quantify the potential issues.

What do we include in our desk studies?

Our desk studies comprise a professional review of several sources of information. These include historical maps, Coal Authority records, geological maps, Local Authority information and more.

We review information from each source and consolidate the findings in the form of a conceptual model of the site.

We conduct site walkovers to confirm the current condition of the site and to validate some of the findings of the desk study; for example evidence of slope instability.

Why is a desk study important?

The simple answer is that most planning authorities require Phase 1 desk studies as part of any planning application! Desk studies can also be used to inform a land sale or acquisition by identifying risk at an early stage

However, the process is more than a box-ticking exercise! It can add significant value to a project, whilst helping save cost, as shown by the examples below.

• As part of a housing development, we reviewed historical maps which identified an old landfill on the site. We collaborated with the developer to amend the site layout, locating homes away from the landfill and placing recreational space above it instead.
• On another scheme involving a directional drill beneath a motorway, we developed a detailed ground model at the desk study phase. This saved the Client £20k, as further investigation works were not required.