Since LUKL was notified by the Environment Agency that it had been identified as the appropriate party to take remedial action, it has been working in consultation with the Environment Agency to better understand the site. This included carrying out monitoring works in 2013-14 and sharing the results with the Environment Agency.
In April 2022, the Environment Agency formally requested that LUKL submit a remediation plan. Since then, LUKL has been working towards developing a voluntary remediation strategy for the site in consultation with the Environment Agency.
Remediation strategy: a high level overview
LUKL is pursuing options for the voluntary remediation of the Hoole Bank site.
Initial stages of work will involve site investigations which include the recovery of samples from the tar lagoon for laboratory testing and analysis. This will inform the development of a remediation strategy for the site.
LUKL’s aspiration is that, following achievement of the necessary consents (for example planning permission and other permits that may be required) works will progress to actively remediate the site.
Phasing of remediation work
Whilst it is still too early to provide a precise timeline, remediation work is expected to take place in five distinct phases and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2027:
Phase 1: site preparatory works
Enabling access to the site and lagoon such that more detailed investigative works can be undertaken.
Phase 3: remediation strategy
Development of a remediation strategy for the site.
Phase 5: site remediation works
Phase 2: detailed site investigation
Activities to help support the voluntary remediation design.
Phase 4: planning and permitting activities
Commencement of a consenting period to apply for the necessary applications for the remediation works.
Work currently underway
LUKL is currently working on progressing activities that form part of Phases 1 to 3, creating safe access to the site, surveying the site to assess its current condition, and further investigation of the tar lagoon itself.
As the project continues to develop and progress over the coming months and years, we will provide regular updates for the local community.