Construction Sites
Construction sites can be a major source of pollution if not managed and controlled properly, and they can have an adverse impact on health and the local environment. It is therefore important that construction personnel follow good environmental practice to control pollution, comply with environmental legislation and prevent problems.
This page is intended to assist developers and to provide information on what would be considered "best practice" in controlling pollution from construction sites.
If suitable measures for particle, vapour and noise control are discussed at the pre-planning or planning stage, the use and cost of any mitigation measures can be incorporated into tender documents and Method Statements.
The Council may impose a planning condition to require the production of a Method Statement, which includes monitoring and control of emissions based on current best practice. It is therefore advisable that discussions with the Council's Environmental Protection Team are carried out at an early stage to agree any requirements.
It should be noted that developments are judged on a site-by-site basis when considering appropriate mitigation schemes. Factors to be considered in controlling pollution from construction sites:
- On site management
- Handling public relations
- Setting working hours and days
- Controlling site traffic and setting up access routes
- Monitoring of particles and vapour discharges
- Noise and vibration monitoring, particularly where piling is being undertaken
- Good Housekeeping
- Proximity to Air Quality Management Areas
Developers are advised to seek advice on which of these factors would be relevant to their proposed application by contacting the Environmental Protection Team. Method statements
In examining Method Statements, the Council will expect best practice to be employed in all aspects of pollution control. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) in conjunction with the DTI Construction Directorate have published a series of guidance notes and these will assist developers in preparing Method Statements.
Controlling particles, vapour and noise pollution from construction sites:
- Part 1 Pre-project and effective management
- Part 2 site preparation, demolition, earthworks and landscaping
- Part 3 Haulage routes vehicles and plant
- Part 4 Materials handling, storage, stockpiles and disposal
- Part 5 Fabrication processes and internal and external finishes.
The guides can be obtained from:
The BRE Bookshop
151 Rosebery Avenue
London
EC1R 4GB
Tel: 020 7505 6622
Fax: 020 7505 6606
Email: brebookshop@emap.com
The Council also administers a Considerate Contractor Scheme which is aimed at minimising the impact of sites on people.
If you would like to contact us about about any of these matters please:
Telephone: 01223 457890
Email: env.health@cambridge.gov.uk
write to us or visit our reception at:
Environmental Services
Cambridge City Council
Mandela House
4 Regent Street
Cambridge, CB2 3QJ.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 4.30pm
The Environmental Services Reception is on the second floor of Mandela House
