Derbyshire County Council Approves New Haul Road for Quarry Expansion

Strategic Insights -

The Derbyshire County Council's planning committee approved an application by Ben Bennett Jr Ltd to build a new haul road on 0.84 hectares of land to the east of Grange Mill Quarry, near Wirksworth, despite concerns about potential dust and noise pollution. The new haul road is intended to replace an existing internal haul road that is deemed to be unsafe, and will provide continued access from the processing area to the upper benches of a south-eastern extension. A spokesperson for the council stated that the development is considered to represent a sustainable form of development, and that any impacts could be mitigated against with conditions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Derbyshire County Council's planning committee approved an application by Ben Bennett Jr Ltd to build a new haul road on 0.84 hectares of land to the east of Grange Mill Quarry, near Wirksworth.
  • The new haul road will replace an existing internal haul road that is deemed to be unsafe, and will provide continued access from the processing area to the upper benches of a south-eastern extension.
  • A county council spokesperson stated that the development is considered to represent a sustainable form of development, and that any impacts could be mitigated against with conditions.
  • The quarry, which produces high-quality limestone for various industries, is located near the Peak District National Park and is surrounded by areas of natural beauty.
  • The council received one representation during the public consultation period, raising concerns about potential dust and noise pollution, the scheme's visual impact, and whether it was needed.
  • The council stated that any impacts could be mitigated against with conditions, and that the scheme would assist in facilitating an existing operation which provides 50 jobs, exports to 22 countries, and contributes towards delivering sustainable economic growth.

Statistics:

  • 0.84 hectares of land will be used for the new haul road.
  • The quarry produces high-quality limestone for various industries.
  • 50 jobs are provided by the quarry.
  • The quarry exports to 22 countries.
  • The new haul road will provide continued access from the processing area to the upper benches of a south-eastern extension.

Sources:

  • "Derbyshire County Council's planning committee approved Ben Bennett Jr Ltd's application at a recent meeting to build a new haul road on 0.84hectares of land to the east and just outside of Grange Mill Quarry, near Wirksworth." Via Jon Cooper, Derbyshire County Council press office.
  • "A county council spokesperson stated: 'The development is considered to represent a sustainable form of development which would, subject to appropriate mitigation measures, not result in any unacceptable impacts to its landscape, the environment or local amenity and would be appropriate within the context of the site in accordance with all relevant national and local plan policy and guidance within the National Planning Policy Framework.'" Via Jon Cooper, Derbyshire County Council press office.