Project overview
iEnvi was engaged by a community group to undertake a preliminary site investigation (PSI) and soil sampling at a property in western Sydney to support a development application to use the site as a place of worship.
What we did
The engagement included a desktop review of site history and government records, a review of historical aerial photography, a site inspection and targeted soil sampling. The investigation findings and supporting documentation were compiled into a detailed report of approximately 250 pages.
Key outcome
Based on site observations, the historical review and the soil sampling results, iEnvi concluded the site was suitable for the existing community use and for the proposed future use as a place of worship. The local council granted development approval following submission of the PSI.
Commercial and regulatory benefits
- Reduced approval risk — the PSI provided the technical evidence required by council to assess contamination risk and site suitability.
- Faster DA determination — a complete, narrative report with laboratory data and historical context simplifies council assessment and can reduce requests for further information.
- Transaction and development confidence — early identification of constraints limits cost uncertainty for the client and their community group.
Practical notes for similar projects
- Engage experienced contamination consultants early in the DA process to target sampling and reporting to council requirements.
- Document site history and provide clear, concise conclusions and recommendations in the report — this expedites council assessment.
- Where community budgets are constrained, request a scope tailored to regulatory needs to control costs while delivering the required evidence.
Contact iEnvi
If you are preparing a development application or need a fast, council‑ready PSI, contact iEnvi on 13000 43684 or via our contact page. We provide practical, compliance‑focused advice to support approvals and reduce development risk.
Need advice on this issue? iEnvironmental Australia provides practical, senior-led environmental consulting across contaminated land, remediation, ecology and environmental risk.