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.

 This 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