WORCESTERSHIRE County Council is looking for landowners to contribute to the new Minerals Local Plan.
As an essential raw material for the construction industry, minerals are important for growth and the authority has a requirement to contribute towards national supplies.
The Plan will guide how much and what minerals the county need to be able to supply, where minerals should be extracted, how sites should be “restored” when working has finished and how minerals development should protect and enhance Worcestershire’s people and places.
And now the county council is looking for landowners to submit additional sites that could be suitable for mineral working and could contribute to their supply of minerals, especially sand, gravel, clay or hard rock.
The ideal site would have proven viable mineral resources, interest from a mineral operator and would not impact adversely on environmental designations, homes or businesses.
Coun Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said:”Worcestershire, like every county, needs to provide vital minerals, often in large quantities, for construction, road maintenance and other infrastructure uses.
“The Minerals Local Plan is a vital document for ensuring that minerals works are carried out in the best and most efficient manner, in the best locations and with minimal environmental impact.
“As well as effective mineral extraction and management which will help further strengthen Worcestershire’s flourishing economy, we are hopeful that the updated Minerals Plan will ensure positive benefits in the long term, including improved outdoor spaces, the creation of wildlife habitats, and positive environmental outcomes such as greater flood mitigation.
“I would encourage anybody who believes they may have a suitable site to contact Worcestershire County Council’s Minerals Planning Policy Team.”
The call for sites is open until January 26, 2018.
For more info visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/minerals, contact the Minerals Planning Policy Team on 01905 766 374 or email [email protected].
