Mineral extraction plan raises hundreds of concerns

Hundreds of people had their say over plans to extract millions of tonnes of minerals from quarries across Warwickshire.
Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul CoxonMineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon
Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon

The consultation on the county’s Local Mineral plan, which was released in October, has closed after “huge levels of public interest and responses”.

The draft sets out Warwickshire County Council’s plan for managing future mineral extraction over the next 15 years.

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A total of nine sites were proposed for ongoing mineral extraction in the latest draft plan, including at Wasperton and nearby Glebe Farm, and in several villages around Rugby including Bourton on Dunsmore.

Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul CoxonMineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon
Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon

During the public consultation, more than 400 responses to the proposals raised concern about allocating land for quarries.

Many concerns focussed on unsuitability of many sites which could be subject to excessive noise, dust and traffic.

A council spokesperson said there is now “a lot of work” for the authority to do to address many issues raised before a report is presented to councillors.

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He said: “Proposals for various other sites have been received and these will now be subject to an early consultation to seek the views of locals on their suitability for allocation if required.”

Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul CoxonMineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon
Mineral Extraction proposed locations. Image by Paul Coxon

Cllr Peter Butlin, portfolio holder responsible for the plan, said: “The county council has a duty to produce a plan and have to allocate sand and gravel sites for future quarrying sites for future quarrying. This is not easy and difficult decisions have to be made.

“When the consultation started I wanted local people to comment on our proposals and I am pleased that they have done so in great numbers.

“Many issues and concerns have been raised and all of these will be addressed.

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“Responses to all of the issues raised within the consultation process will be published.”

A final draft plan on mineral sites will be presented to the council’s cabinet for approval in the coming months and another public consultation will be held before this plan is presented to the Government.

View the Warwickshire Minerals Plan (2017 – 2032) here.