What is meant by the term 'contaminated land'?

Contaminated land is land, which has substances in, on or under it, which are likely to be harmful to health and the surrounding environment. These substances are usually present because of the past use of the land e.g. former industrial uses, but may be due to a pollution incident or a naturally high level of a particular substance in the ground.

The legal definition with which local authorities identify such land is set out in Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

How is the Council going to meet its obligation to identify contaminated land?

Under new regulations, which came into force in July 2001, all local authorities in Wales must inspect land in their area for the presence of contamination. Each local authority must publish an inspection strategy detailing how it plans to undertake this inspection process in a rational, ordered and efficient manner.

 What steps can I take to reduce the risk of Radon?

Typical solutions can include:

• Install a radon sump system under or alongside the home with a fan and pipe to remove the radon
• Improve ventilation under suspended timber floors extra airbricks or vents
• Use positive ventilation in your house which blows fresh air or air from the loft space into the house
• Seal cracks and gaps in solid concrete floors
• Change the way your house is ventilated
  

For information on radon and its effects please contact us or visit the The Health Protection Agency Website by following the below link.

www.hpa.org.uk/radiation