DATES for hearings to scrutinise a plan for future quarry sites across the New Forest have been set as proposals reach their final stages.
As reported in the A&T, Hampshire County Council’s minerals and waste plan outlines how the authority will deliver enough minerals for the county’s needs, as well as how it will deal with waste material that cannot be reused or recycled as renewable energy, up until 2040.
Future extraction sites include Ashley Manor Farm in New Milton, Purple Haze south of Ringwood Forest, and Midgham Farm near Fordingbridge.
HCC’s plan for extraction sites will now be scrutinised (picture: stock image)
The proposals have been controversial among residents, with campaigners saying the sites being developed will affect their health and wellbeing.
In November, New Milton Sand & Ballast won permission from Hampshire County Council’s regulatory committee to extract gravel from Ashley Manor Farm despite more than 300 objections. It saw committee chair Cllr Peter Latham apologise to campaigners as members admitted that if they refused it, HCC would likely lose any appeal against the decision. This extraction can proceed if the minerals and waste plan is approved.
Examination hearings into the plan will begin at 10am on 4th February, the government’s Planning Inspectorate has confirmed.
An independent inspector will assess whether the plan complies with legal standards and is aligned with the National Planning Policy Framework.
Midgham Farm (picture: Google)
An HCC spokesperson said the plan is the best way to ensure that minerals and waste operations fully consider the character and special qualities of Hampshire, and will not adversely impact communities or the local environment.
They added: ”Not having an up-to-date plan in place would make Hampshire vulnerable to having sites decided at appeal, losing the opportunity to ensure locally relevant matters are considered when sites come forward for minerals or waste development.”
The hearings will be informal, ‘round table’ sessions led by inspector Luke Fleming, who will address pre-set topics. Unlike a public inquiry, there will be no formal presentation of parties’ cases and no cross-examination.
Ashley Manor Farm (picture: Google)
Only those who have made representations on the plan at the Regulation 19 stage and proposed changes to make it sound and/or legally compliant can take part.
HCC said the inspector has indicated only those participating in the discussions should attend the hearing sessions.