Chalk mine review in Hatfield
This section details why the chalk mine review of Hatfield took place, the result of the study and what it may mean to you are a homeowner or business in Hatfield.
Planning and building related issues
The borough council’s development control and building control sections have started using geological and evidential information and have agreed policies for determining new developments in areas where there is a possibility of chalk workings.
The study does not prevent new developments in Hatfield. Following the submission of your planning application, if the development is situated in one of the areas identified the planning officer will carry out a risk assessment based on the size, location and type of the proposal. The council will then make a decision on your application taking into account the risk identified.
If there is a high risk for the scheme then we will ask the applicant to submit a geotechnical report with the planning application.
If the risk is moderate, we will ask the applicant, using a condition on the planning permission, to submit a report before the works start.
If the risk is very low then the applicant will be advised to ensure that a watching brief is kept on the building works as they progress. In all cases, the applicant may need to discuss the issue with their planning agent/builder.
In all cases, the responsibility and subsequent liability for safe development and secure occupancy of the site rests with the developer and/or landowner.
If the applicant writes to us at planning@welhat.gov.uk for pre-application advice on their planning proposals we will carry out the risk assessment at that stage.