Remediation Case Studies / Kent – Former Timber Yard and Motor Showroom/Garage

A site comprising of a former wood yard and disused car showroom and maintenance garage required remediation. A Category One Pollution Incident had also been identified by the EA at the nearby river and fishing lake. It was reported that large quantities of flushed diesel and heavier oils were found within the watercourse that lie in close proximity to the site. The source of the contamination was from drains at the subject site passing under the adjoining railway station car park and ultimately to the watercourses. Further soil contamination was found to include zinc, benzo(a)pyrene, asbestos, SVOC’s and TPH. The initial concerns included any yet to be discovered tanks, drain runs, interceptors and soakaways.

Contamination had occurred due to former use further worsened by the pollution incident during the demolition of the former buildings. Trials showed the bulk of the contamination on site was diesel based hydrocarbons although a considerable volume of material was heavy metal and PAH impacted.

Remediation of these soils first required the removal of drainage pipes and plugging shingle run in order to prevent any further cross contamination. Once secured all made ground and hot spots were excavated to visually clean material. Validation testing was then carried out to confirm visual inspection. Excavated soils were bioremediated to reduce the contamination to an acceptable level for use at a depth below one metre from finished level. Surplus material was disposed of to an appropriate licensed facility as non hazardous. A clean cap of one metre was introduced within the garden areas.

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