A1(T) Elkesley Junction Improvements - Highways Agency

13 Geology and Soils13.1 Findings at Stage 2 AssessmentThe assessment at Stage 2 found the soil composition across the study area is ofwell drained sandy and coarse and often over sandstone, leading to the potential ofthe transportation of contaminants into the underlying groundwater system.The Preferred Version would not adversely impact solid or drift geology due toexpected levels of compaction and piling for the bridge and road surfaces. In light ofthis, potential impacts from these sources were not considered when choosingVersion 1 over Version 2.The majority of the study area is situated on greenfield land with a small potential forhaving contaminated soils already in situ, therefore the chance of disturbingcontaminated during construction is perceived as being low.The Preferred Version has the potential to impact on groundwater sources andboreholes.13.2 Reason for Scoping OutThe Preferred Version does not affect any geological SSSIs.The potential for disturbing contaminated land during the construction andoperational phases, taking into consideration existing and previous known land uses,is considered to be low/insignificant with the correct mitigation in place.It was therefore considered that there would be no significant impacts as a result ofthe proposals and that no further assessment is required.103