Soil Contamination Risks and Sustainable Land Redevelopment: A Case Study of Tolworth Court Farm

This study evaluates soil contamination risks in Tolworth Court Farm, Kingston upon Thames, a semi-urban site undergoing transition for residential redevelopment. Composite random sampling was applied to six sections (A–F), and analyses included soil pH, organic matter (Walkley–Black), and heavy metals (ICP–AES). Results indicated moderately acidic soils (pH 4.56) with medium organic matter (5.02%). Cadmium concentrations averaged 1.13 mg/kg, exceeding the UK Soil Guideline Value (1.0 mg/kg), with Section A reaching 1.52 mg/kg. Cadmium was also found to be the most mobile metal (2.21%), suggesting potential risks of groundwater contamination and plant uptake. Lead, chromium, nickel, and zinc concentrations remained below regulatory thresholds but require continued monitoring. The study highlights the importance of integrating soil assessments into sustainable urban redevelopment frameworks, with targeted remediation measures such as pH adjustment, phytostabilization, and long-term monitoring to reduce exposure risks. The findings provide evidence-based guidance for policymakers and urban planners, ensuring environmental safety in post-industrial land transformation projects.