If you’re comparing greenfield and brownfield sites, there are a lot of pros and cons for both types of property development sites. Typically, property developers favour greenfield sites for various reasons, but why are they overlooking brownfield sites? Greenfield sites are typically further from the city centre, and developers need to factor in the cost of installing infrastructure. Still, these aren’t reason enough to abandon the dream of a clean slate. So, why do developers prefer greenfield sites to brownfield sites? Before choosing a site for development, you want to read this.
Freedom for Design and Expansion
While brownfield sites tend to be surrounded by other properties and often encroachments, greenfield sites have fewer limitations on the property size and design. The development layout will not be hindered by previous developments on the land, making it a blank canvas. With fewer constraints and red tape, property developers are better positioned to stick to their stylistic and structural goals. For example, if a developer wanted to build a large structure, they would be free to implement piling to support the foundations.
Blanks Slates and No Contamination
Unlike greenfield sites, brownfield sites have previously been developed. The remnants of these developments may result in welcome infrastructure, but they may also have the constraints of existing infrastructure. Remaining buildings and structures may need to be demolished first. In addition, brownfield sites are primarily found in commercial and industrial areas and—depending on the previous activity on these sites—they may need to be decontaminated. Hazardous waste and harmful chemicals can be expensive to remediate, although doing so is beneficial to the local environment and residents.
Construction Times
Greenfield land may need to be levelled and prepared before breaking ground. Still, previously developed brownfield land may have structures that need to be demolished and soil that needs to be decontaminated. Such additional labour can lead to unforeseen circumstances and often time delays. Even if everything goes as planned, the additional steps required before breaking ground often delay construction. Project managers, investors, and construction companies always welcome shorter construction times.
Cost Cutting
Developing property on greenfield sites can be cost-effective when compared to brownfield sites. Property developers can save money when the land doesn’t require special preparation by demolishing structures and decontaminating or remediating it. The cost of extended construction times can also become onerous. An entire team of staff and contractors must be paid throughout the project and for the completed work. When it comes to the freedom granted by greenfield development sites, property developers can increase their return on investment by making savvy design decisions and using this freedom to their benefit.
Greenfield sites and brownfield sites are very different and serve different purposes. While developers prefer greenfield sites to brownfield sites, you still have to ask, what kind of land is better suited to your needs and circumstances? Before you choose the ideal site, take your time to do all the research you need to do. Archistar’s property development platform can be helpful in this regard, so there is no need to feel overwhelmed.
