Select List of Site Suitability Assessors
Setting up of a Select List of Approved Site Suitability Assessors to carry out Site Suitability Assessments for On–Site Wastewater Treatment Systems
Since 2007 planning applications for development schemes (including single houses) not connecting to a public sewer must be accompanied by a report on the suitability of the development site for any proposed proprietary treatment system for effluent disposal.
The Council had previously invited applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals for inclusion on a Select List of assessors and following an Interview process it is now proposed to implement the Select List from 5th April, 2010.
In implementing this Select List, the Council is recognising that the individual assessors on it have demonstrated appropriate qualifications and experience to conduct the work. However, all applicants must satisfy themselves that the contract they undertake with any assessor is adequately and appropriately fulfilled.
Download List of Approved Site Suitability Assessors
After the 5th April 2010, any site suitability assessment to be carried out must be conducted by a person included on the List.
What is a List of Approved Site Suitability Assessors?
- A Site Suitability assessor is a person who carries out Site Suitability Test to determine whether a site (e.g. for a rural house) can safely treat/dispose of effluent using an On-Site Wastewater Treatment System and recommends a type/design to best suit the site.
- Site Suitability Tests are in turn submitted to the Council in support of Planning Applications. Certain applications must have an assessment submitted with the application.
- The List sets out the Names and Address of Persons who have undergone a rigorous selection process and have demonstrated the necessary Competency to carry out such Site Suitability Tests.
How does this affect me?
If you are applying for Planning Permission to build a Development requiring an On Site Wastewater Treatment System (e.g. a house not connected to a mains sewerage system) you are required by law to submit a Site Suitability Test with the Planning Application. The names on the list will help you select a competent Site Suitability Assessor.
What are the benefits of Setting up a List of Approved Site Assessors?
The list will:
- Ensure that wastewater systems are professionally sited, designed and selected on the basis of an expert site suitability assessment to Environmental Protection Agency standards and so provide the highest level of protection to the environment and public health.
- Provide applicants with a certified choice of suitably qualified persons to carry out site assessments, offer confidence to applicants vis-à-vis the professionalism of the recommendations therein and the associated suitability of the wastewater treatment system for their specific site.