Contaminated land: Recent research and development for UK Highways Agency

This paper summarises the outcomes of recent research and development work for the UK Highways Agency (HA) into the investigation, risk assessment and treatment of contaminated land. There has been a substantial increase in legislation, guidance and understanding of this topic over recent years. This paper outlines the key issues to Highways Agency and how these are addressed under present and proposed guidance. A few case studies have been selected to illustrate the range of issues arising. The paper also considers planned developments to ensure the appropriate knowledge and technologies are suitably used and managed. This is particularly important in respect of the consistent management of risks and the sustainable use of resources. The HA has been supporting development of industry standards on contaminated land through the umbrella of Institution of Civil Engineers Site Investigation Steering Group.