Press Release

NHBC launches site waste management plan consultancy service

18 September 2008

In April 2008, Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) became a legal reporting, monitoring and training requirement for all construction and demolition projects in England costing more than £300,000. Failure to comply with the SWMP legislation is an offence punishable by a fine of up to £50,000.

NHBC is now launching a SWMP consultancy service to assist the house-building and construction industry in meeting this new regulatory requirement.  With NHBC's team of SWMP experts available, this service will plan, research, complete, review and reconcile you SWMPs, dealing with the paperwork and giving builders the time to concentrate on planning and building their projects.

A SWMP provides a framework for the delivery and disposal of waste throughout the lifespan of a construction project.  It also helps  to identify estimated quantities of waste arising from a site and assists the builder to make informed decisions as to what to do with that waste.  A SWMP splits waste in to three categories; inert, non-hazardous and hazardous ,and then reviews the most appropriate means of disposal.

"The client, which in house building will be the developer, is ultimately responsible for ensuring that a SWMP is commissioned and completed for their construction projects over £300,000.  Rather than appreciating the obvious cost, efficiency, environmental and time savings that a SWMP will offer, they could potentially be overwhelmed with the paperwork associated with producing a SWMP.

At the NHBC we have specialist consultants, trained in SWMP legislation, who will work to prepare all of the research and paperwork requirements for our
customers and their business".    Simon Mantle, NHBC's Health and Safety
Services Manager

A SWMP can save builders money by identifying recycling and reuse opportunities for materials, and the use of local suppliers for the disposal of waste wherever possible.  SWMPs are also a visible demonstration of a builder's dedication to reducing waste and protecting the environment, and their customers should be impressed by their commitment to the environment and to ensuring that legislation is met.

More information on Site Waste Management Plans and NHBC's SWMP service is available at www.nhbc.co.uk/swmp, or contact Gordon Halfacre on 0844 633 1000 or by email at swmp@nhbc.co.uk.