We are pleased to have supported Ikon Norfolk Ltd in achieving outline planning for the redevelopment of the Former Pumping Station at Laburnum Place in Sittingbourne. This brownfield site, once home to a mid-20th century pumping station serving the local paper mill, had long since fallen into disrepair, with only remnants of the concrete base and pumping equipment remaining among overgrown vegetation.
The approved proposals will deliver 26 residential apartments within a part 3, part 5-storey building, alongside communal green space and 13 parking bays. Well positioned just 280m from Sittingbourne train station, the site sits within an established urban setting, surrounded by residential properties to the south and west, a public car park to the east, and the Chatham Main Line railway to the north.
MEC’s involvement began with a Phase I Contaminated Land Desk Study, which confirmed the site’s long industrial history, including its operation as a pumping station with an on-site well linked to the nearby paper mill. The study reviewed historical land uses such as tanneries, pits, brickworks and gas works in the surrounding area to assess potential contamination sources. While the potential for localised remediation was identified, the desk study recommended a detailed scope of investigation to fully assess these risks.
Flood Risk and Drainage assessments highlighted that while the site lies within Flood Zone 1, the topography and the elevated railway embankment created a high risk of surface water flooding. During extreme rainfall events, depths of up to 900mm could accumulate on-site. To address this, MEC designed a drainage strategy which included raising finished floor levels by 900mm, designating refuge areas at first floor level, and preparing a flood evacuation plan in consultation with Kent County Council. A geo-cellular storage tank system providing 434m³ of capacity will attenuate surface water on-site, discharging at a controlled rate of 2l/s into the local sewer. This solution not only secured the site against future flood events but also improved resilience across the wider catchment.
Acoustic and vibration surveys were undertaken to assess the impact of the railway and St Michael’s Road, the two principal noise sources. The modelling informed the layout of the development and identified appropriate glazing and ventilation strategies to ensure compliance with British Standards and guidance. Vibration from rail traffic was found to be within acceptable limits. In addition to this, an air quality assessment was carried out to examine the impact of traffic emissions. Concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and particulates were confirmed to be within the relevant objectives, with construction dust management forming the main mitigation requirement.
The brownfield nature of the site brought several challenges. Its industrial heritage required careful consideration of historical contamination, particularly given its location within a groundwater Source Protection Zone. Surface water flood risk presented a significant constraint, with modelling showing the potential for deep ponding during storm events. Our strategy not only safeguarded future residents through raised floor levels and emergency refuge provision but also improved drainage capacity for the wider area.
Noise and air quality constraints demanded a sensitive design approach, with specific building fabric and ventilation measures ensuring that new residents would enjoy safe and comfortable living conditions despite the proximity of the railway and major roads.
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