During the balmy final week of August, at the REC Ltd Swindon branch it was all systems go as we prepared to host The Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group event. 

The event proved to be a perfect collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce Group and REC Ltd, with the topics centred around economic growth in the property sector alongside the environmental issues that are likely to heavily impact on businesses.

In order to challenge the environmental factors likely to affect property development and businesses, the REC team focused on factors which could affect site development from the initial construction stages through to any problems which could arise on an established development.

Paul Dennis, Associate director for REC Ltd Swindon consequently delivered a detailed discussion on the importance of ‘Effective Early Site Assessment’ with a particular focus on Brownfield sites, flood risk, contaminated land and ecology. From an environmentally responsible perspective, focusing on legal requirements, such as habitat surveys and protecting biodiversity, proved a particularly valuable topic for property sectors likely to manage large plots of ‘waste land’.

Paul also demonstrated, using case studies, how our teams have helped developers discharge planning conditions for a range of large and small-scale projects. Using a range of techniques such as air quality assessment, stack emissions testing and habitat surveys, we can offer solutions which allow ‘environmentally sensitive’ sites to be developed.

Highly esteemed guest speakers also offered an expert opinion on the day with topics focusing on flood risk awareness (useful for homes and businesses), early site assessment of proposed land development and long-term economic development in Swindon and the surrounding areas.

Gary Cranford, BM from Thames Valley Chamber said of the event:

“We were pleased to hear the views of three experienced individuals in their own field which contributed to an informative debate about the impact of flooding on future development. Our thanks go to Chamber members DPDS Consulting, Resource and Environmental Consultants Ltd... and Swindon Borough Council”.

REC Ltd look forward to hosting future events to help local sectors and businesses develop sustainably. For more information about any of our services, please visit our website or contact one of our regional offices.