Overview of NQMS Scheme
The National Quality Mark Scheme for Land affected by Contamination (NQMS) is a scheme that has been developed by the National Brownfield Forum (formerly Land Forum) to provide visible identification of documents that have been checked for quality by a Suitably Qualified and experienced Person (SQP). It will provide increased confidence and improved quality of submissions made under regulatory regimes, particularly planning applications, related to previously used land.
- updated October 2024This document provides details on the following:
- An overview and the objectives of the NQMS
- How the NQMS operates
- The role and eligibility criteria of the SQP
- Declaration Process
- Auditing
Environment Agency Position Statement and letter of support from Chief Executive
The Environment Agency's Position Statement on the NQMS can be downloaded below:
Position statement J9: National Quality Mark Scheme for land contamination management in The Environment Agency’s approach to groundwater protection (GP3)
Letter of Support from Environment Agency Chief Executive can be downloaded below:
NQMS Press Release announcing launch of scheme
The NQMS will be launched on the 9th January 2017. To read the full press release follow the link: Press Release
Letter inviting Local Planning Authorities to participate with the NQMS
The letter can be downloaded below:
NQMS Progress Bulletin - May 2019
NQMS Myth Busters Bulletin - Nov 2022