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Environmental health
Demolition
The demolition of a building can pose risks to the health and safety of the public, to the environment and to the stability of adjoining buildings.
Any person intending to demolish a building must give the local authority notice. The notice to demolish should be accompanied by a site plan and a method statement detailing the full demolition procedure including all measures adopted to protect the public.
Six weeks notice of the intended demolition should be given, as the council has that period of time in which to serve a notice specifying its requirements. Failure to comply with the notice can lead to prosecution.
The council may impose requirements on the way in which the demolition work is carried out, these could include :
- Limitations on the hours of work
- Requirements to notify adjoining owners and service providers (eg gas, water, electricity)
- A ban on burning any materials on site
- Provisions to limit the effects on adjoining properties (eg excessive dust, noise)
- Requirements about sealing or removing redundant drains or sewers
- Protection of adjacent buildings
- Removal of material from the site
If you intend to carry out demolition works, including part of a building, and are unsure if notification will be required in your particular circumstance, please contact us for advice. You should also note that if you intend to demolish a dwelling, you may need to obtain planning consent before doing so - see also : Listed buildings : Demolition.
For more information please contact Environmental Support.
