Bespoke Permit
Paul Downing
If you operate a business that is required to apply for an environmental permit but you cannot meet any of the standard rules permit conditions, then you will need to apply for a bespoke permit.
A bespoke permit is just that, an environmental permit tailored to your particular business requirements. In terms of waste volumes & your location. It also describes operating techniques and processes you may want to use on site such as shearing, baling, etc.
Whilst a bespoke permit is more practical from your business point of view, it also is more expensive to apply for. It can be up to 10x more than a standard rules application. The annual subsistence charge is higher. The Environment Agency will also want to see more stringent controls and procedures.
One of the main reasons that a bespoke permit may be required is location. Standard rules permits often have location conditions stating that the operation cannot be run less than 200m from a SSSI or SPA. If this is the case then bespoke is your only option. You will still need to meet all other standard rules conditions.
You are not limited by volumes or EWC codes as in SR permits. However, you pay more depending on the volumes you want to accept at site. If you are accepting hazardous waste then expect the fees to ramp up. If you are accepting combustible waste then you will need to get your fire prevention plan approved before a permit can be granted.
Applying for a bespoke permit is not a minor undertaking. You should weigh up the cost benefits to see if you can operate under a standard rules permit first.
If you require advice on applying for a bespoke environmental permit please call us on 077 901 470 84