Demolition works

A demolition licence is required where it is proposed to demolish Works either in part or in full.

Demolished works can only be taken off a Licence if completely removed from the site, including those parts extending into the sub-soil.  If only partial removal occurs and for example pile stumps remain in the river bed then the works that remain must be retained on a licence.

Guidance

The following should be provided with any application to demolish works:

• Application form (Word, PDF)
• Location of works marked on a PLA chart extract
• Method statement and risk assessment – Due to the complexities involved in removing works from the river, the method statement should, in addition to providing the standard information required, set out the following:
  • the amount of vertical pull or other efforts to be exerted on piles before cutting off is agreed;
    the method of verification that the effort agreed has been applied;
  • the level below bed at which the piles will be cut off expressed as an absolute value related to Chart or Ordnance Datum at the top of the remaining pile;
  • the method of cutting and the method of verification that cutting has been at the agreed level;
  • the requirement for post removal hydrographic survey.
• Scaled drawings of the existing works
• If the works are not to be removed in full, scaled drawings should be provided of the works that would remain
• Water Framework Directive Assessment
• Relevant contextual / background information including the proposed timescale of the works
• Application processing fee
• Supporting studies where relevant (for example: hydrodynamic assessment, risk assessment, environmental assessment or statement)
• Copy of River Works Licence to which the demolition application relates

A consideration and surveyors fee is payable for all river works licences, this is dealt with by the Estates team at [email protected]. The Estates team should only be contacted once you have received written confirmation that the application has been approved. Further information on PLA Charges is available here.