Background
The UK environment agencies and regulators (NIEA, EA, SEPA, NRW) stipulate that all planning applications for cemetery and graveyard developments should be accompanied by an appropriate Groundwater / Hydrogeological Risk Assessment, and that the assessment needs to be completed by a qualified Hydrogeologist.
The assessments will determine ground conditions and provide a risk assessment with respect to the local water environment (Groundwater and surface water).
We have completed Hydrogeological Risk Assessments for a range of clients including local parishes for graveyard extensions, and local council authorities to assess large parcels of land for suitability of a new cemeteries, or cemetery extensions.
In order to appropriately assess the risks and ensure a cost-effective approach, a tiered approach is adopted:
- Tier 1: Preliminary Hydrogeological Risk Assessment
- Tier 2: Generic Quantitative Hydrogeological Risk Assessment
- Tier 3: Detailed Quantitative Hydrogeological Risk Assessment
We have the capability to supplement assessments with detailed ground water modelling studies. Our specialised team can undertake the relevant pollutant flux modelling and contaminant fate & transport modelling to complete the assessments in accordance with EA / NIEA / SEPA / NRW guidance.
Our Hydrogeology Team
Our groundwater team is led by Senior Hydrogeologist, Francis McAuley, who is experienced in carrying out cemetery assessments ranging from Tier 1 preliminary risk assessments right through to Tier 3 detailed quantitative risk assessments that include contaminant flux modelling and contaminant transport models to fully quantify the risk.