Southwest Environmental Limited

Open Windrow Composting Environmental Permit Application

SWEL has successfully under taken an Environmental Permit Application for a medium sized composting facility.

A company in the South West of the UK, who operate an open windrow composting facility are were keen to apply for a new environmental permit before there current "Paragraph 12" arrangement expired in 2011.

Southwest Environmental were engaged as Consultants to oversee the an Application for an Environmental Permit under the Environmental Permitting Regulations.

An assessment of the site was made to ensure that current arrangements were environmentally sound, meetings took place to discuss the needs of the client and the project time frame.

SWEL prepared supporting documentation for the application which was stipulated within the permit for a standard permit application these include:

- An Odour Management Plan

- A Site Condition Report

SWEL offer practical solutions to problems that may arise during the application process.

The Permit now successfully obtained SWEL have now been commissioned to undertake further compliance work, and make operational changes to the companies operating procedures necessary for certification under the PAS 100 quality management system.

SWEL PAS100 project details.

SWEL have considerable experience in dealing with producers of compost, and welcome any enquiries regarding compliance or quality management.Applying for a compost permit takes around 12 weeks start to finish, this includes time for site visits, report writing, application submission to the Environment Agency and Processing time. The Permit "duly made " when the EA have received all of the information they need. The application then enters the determination stage, where the information content is scrutinized to make sure it has been written in accordance with Environment Agency guidance.

Bespoke Compost Permit

The below section was written by a machine.

Technical Guidance: Environmental Permitting for Composting Facilities

Securing an Environmental Permit for a composting facility is a critical step in ensuring long-term operational viability and regulatory compliance. Whether operating an open windrow system or an in-vessel facility, the application process requires a robust evidence base to satisfy the Environment Agency that the activity will not result in environmental degradation or nuisance. At SWEL, we provide the technical authority required to navigate these complex regulations, drawing on over 15 years of industry experience.

Core Documentation for Permit Applications

A standard or bespoke permit application must be supported by specialized reports that address site-specific risks. These documents are scrutinized during the determination stage to ensure they align with current guidance.

• Odour Management Plan (OMP): A detailed strategy for monitoring and mitigating emissions, essential for preventing nuisance to sensitive receptors.
• Site Condition Report (SCR): Documenting the baseline state of the land to ensure that no contamination occurs during the life of the permit.
• Bio-aerosol Risk Assessment: A technical requirement for facilities located within 250 meters of sensitive receptors, ensuring the protection of public health.
• PAS 100 Quality Management: Moving beyond the permit to achieve certification for compost quality, ensuring the end product is fit for purpose.

The Application and Determination Process

The timeline for a permit application typically spans around 12 weeks from start to finish, including site visits and report preparation. Once submitted, the application undergoes a "duly made" check before entering the formal determination phase.

• Pre-Application Advice: Engaging with the Environment Agency early can identify potential hurdles in the permit application process.
• Bespoke vs. Standard Rules: We assess whether your facility qualifies for a standard rules permit or requires a more complex bespoke application based on site-specific risks.
• Operational Compliance: Post-permit support includes refining operating procedures to meet PAS 100 standards and managing ongoing environmental monitoring.

Integrated Environmental Support

Composting projects often intersect with other regulatory requirements, such as Flood Risk Assessments (FRA) and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). By linking your permit application with a comprehensive Planning Statement, SWEL provides a seamless route to both planning and environmental consent. With over 900 projects delivered across the UK, our professional accreditation (IES/CIWEM) ensures your facility operates to the highest environmental standards.

Permit Applications