Advisory notes for the control of demolition and construction
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Advisory Notes for the Control of Pollution during Construction & Demolition Works
In order to minimise potential nuisance to nearby existing residents caused by construction and demolition works, Environmental Control recommends that the following guidelines are followed. Adherence to this advisory note will significantly reduce the likelihood of public complaint and potential enforcement action by Environmental Control.
Best Practice for Construction Sites
Although the following notes are set out in the style of planning conditions, they are designed to represent the best practice techniques for the site. Therefore, failure to follow them may result in enforcement action under nuisance legislation (Environmental Protection Act 1990), or the imposition of controls on working hours (Control of Pollution Act 1974)
- Noise Control
1) No vehicle connected with the works to arrive on site before 07:30 or leave after 19:00 (except in the case of emergency). Working hours to be restricted between 08:00 and 18:00 Monday to Saturday (finishing at 13:00 on Saturday) with no working of any kind permitted on Sundays or any Public/Bank Holidays.
2) The selection and use of machinery to operate on site, and working practices to be adopted will, as a minimum requirement, be compliant with the standards laid out in British Standard 5228:1984.
3) Mobile plant to be resident on site during extended works shall be fitted with nonaudible reversing alarms (subject to HSE agreement).
4) Prior to the commencement of any piling works which may be necessary, a full method statement shall be agreed in writing with the Planning Authority (in consultation with Environmental Control). This will contain a rationale for the piling method chosen and details of the techniques to be employed which minimise noise and vibration to nearby residents.
- Emission Control
1) All waste arising from the ground clearance and construction processes to be recycled or removed from the site subject to agreement with the Local Planning Authority and other relevant agencies.
2) No fires to be lit on site at any time.
3) On large scale construction sites, a wheel-wash facility shall be provided for the duration of the works to ensure levels of soil on roadways near the site are minimised.
4) All bulk carrying vehicles accessing the site shall be suitably sheeted to prevent nuisance from dust in transit.
Best Practice for Demolition Sites
Prior to the commencement of any demolition works, the applicant (or their contractors) shall submit a full method statement to, and receive written approval from, the Planning & Protection Department. In addition to the guidance on working hours, plant specification, and emission controls given above, the following additional notes should be considered when drafting this document: -
- Noise Control
1) If there is a requirement to work outside of the recommended hours the applicant or contractor must submit a request in writing for approval by Planning & Protection prior to the commencement of works.
2) The use of barriers to mitigate the impact of noisy operations will be used where possible. This may include the retention of part(s) of the original buildings during the demolition process to act in this capacity.
- Emission Control
1) All waste arising from the demolition process to be recycled or removed from the site subject to agreement with the Local Planning Authority and other relevant agencies.
