Environment Agency Guidance on the Use of Waste in Construction
The U1 Use of Waste in Construction Exemption allows for the use of suitable wastes for small scale construction up to a maximum limit of 5,000 tonnes* instead of using virgin raw materials. It is an alternative to applying for a full environmental permit (replacing the previous waste management exemptions) which can take several months to obtain at a significant cost.
*This quantity differs depending on the type of waste. Please see the full guidance for full details.
Construction for the purposes of this activity means “the carrying on of any building or engineering work which includes the repair, alteration, maintenance or improvement of any existing work and preparatory landscaping works”. Land reclamation is only permissible under this exemption when it is part of a construction activity.
Example Activities include:
- Using crushed bricks, concrete, rocks and aggregate to create a noise bund around a new development and then using soil to landscape it to enable grass to grow.
- Using road planings and rubble to build a track, road or car park.
- Using wood-chip to construct a track, path or bridleway.
- Bringing in some soil from another place for use in landscaping at a housing development.
For more information on the updated guidance, visit the Environment Agency Website at:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/topics/permitting/116299.aspx
For a more detailed insight into Material Management Planning and how it can provide cost reduction savings for your project, get it touch today.
Read John McAuliffe's recent article on the new CL:AIRE Waste Code of Practice guidance published in the May 2010 edition of Brownfield Briefing
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Tim Brickley
Technical Director
