Planning, development and contaminated land
Key responsibilities
The planning sector plays a key role in addressing the problem of contaminated land. When preparing development proposals, planning authorities should consider the risk of contamination.
Our countryside is being put under more pressure for the development of new industries, businesses and housing. There’s an increasing need to move towards sustainable development. This involves building on previously developed land (brownfield sites) – some of which may be contaminated – in order to preserve land that hasn’t been developed on (greenfield sites).
Planning authorities are the lead regulators in this process. They may consult with SEPA, especially in instances where land contamination is suspected of polluting the water environment.
How to find out if land is contaminated
To find out the status of a site and whether or not it is affected by land contamination, you should consult with your local authority. Find a list of local authorities on mygov.scot.
Vacant or derelict land
Not all vacant or derelict land is contaminated. To check if derelict land is contaminated, check the Scottish vacant and derelict land survey.
The Scottish vacant and derelict land survey (on gov.scot) presents a summary of the survey’s most recent results in collaboration with the Scottish Government and the planning authorities.
What is remediation?
Remediation is mitigating any risks posed by land contamination. This can involve the cleaning up of contaminated land. The aim of remediation should be to remove the pollutant linkage, either by reducing or removing the contamination source, breaking the pathway or removing the receptor.
As a land owner or manager, you may be responsible for remediation. Find out more on the remediation page.
Advice from the Scottish government
The Scottish Government has issued advice to planning authorities on the development of contaminated land in Planning Advice Note 33 (on gov.scot).
Further guidance on planning and contaminated land can be found within the Planning section of our website.