Latest sales data to shape minerals plan

Consultation on a revised plan for sand and gravel extraction in Nottinghamshire could start later this year.

The proposed approach for preparation of a new Minerals Local Plan is contained in a report to be considered on Thursday by the county council’s communities and place committee.

The first consultation on the plan is scheduled for the autumn, with a revised plan being available in spring next year.

Among the sites considered for minerals extraction under the previous plan were Averham Flash, Coddington and Shelford.

That was halted after the Conservatives took control of County Hall in May over concerns that the need for sand and gravel was declining.

A revised Local Aggregates Assessment is due later this year containing the most recent sales information available for minerals extracted in Nottinghamshire.

Those figures are expected to shape the future of mineral extraction in the county.
Councillors believe falling demand for sand and gravel casts doubt on the need for as many new quarries identified in the withdrawn Minerals Local Plan.

They say increased use of recycled building materials in the construction industry indicates less sand and gravel would need to be extracted.

Landowners and mineral operators will be asked to put forward sites that they want to be considered for inclusion in the new Minerals Local Plan.

Mr Kevin Rostance, vice-chairman of the communities and place committee, said: “We pledged to review the draft Minerals Local Plan as we were concerned that too many potential quarry sites were being earmarked in Nottinghamshire at a time of declining demand for sand and gravel.

“By using the very latest available data we will be able to make sure that the revised plan is fit for purpose and reflects the reality of demand for sand and gravel.

“Publishing the proposed content and approach for the revised Minerals Local Plan gives local communities the opportunity to make sure that they are ready to comment on the proposals as part of our public consultation, which is due to start later this year.”