Final consultation on Devon Minerals Plan
Residents in Devon are being invited to have their final say on future plans for quarrying in the county for the next 17 years.
The last public consultation for the new Devon Minerals Plan has been launched by Devon County Council this week.
The plan was developed following several rounds of consultation and informal engagement and examined by a Government inspector in May.
Following this, the County Council has drafted almost 200 modifications to address objections to the plan and the further consultation is now required on these modifications so the inspector can issue his report.
The proposed modifications include measures to strengthen protection of the amenity of communities living close to proposed sites at Drakelands Mine and Uffculme, achieve a more focused vision and spatial strategy for the Plan, and maximise the use of secondary and recycled materials.
Councillor Jerry Brook, Chairman of the County Council’s Development Management Committee, said: “We have worked hard with local residents, parish councils and the minerals industry to develop our Minerals Plan over the past few years, and want to thank everyone for their input. Now this eight week consultation is the final opportunity for people across the county to have their say on the proposed modifications.
“The Plan has to balance the supply of the county’s natural mineral resources, while minimising the impact on Devon's environment and local residents.
“We have carefully considered all feedback throughout this process and recognise that the Plan requires some amendment to ensure that it meets the necessary standard for adoption.
“I therefore encourage everyone to take part in this consultation and make further comment on the proposed modifications so we can make sure we strike the right balance and secure a plan fit for our future.”
The Devon Minerals Plan aims to maintain the supply of the wide range of mineral resources produced in Devon, while minimising adverse effects on Devon’s communities and environment. While some of these resources have adequate reserves to last beyond the next 18 years, it is necessary for the Plan to propose some new areas for working to ensure supply.
The consultation on the proposed modifications runs from 1 August to 23 September 2016, Full details are available on the County Council’s website here: https://new.devon.gov.uk/haveyoursay
More information about the development of the plan is available online here: https://new.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/minerals-and-waste-p...
Image: Blackhill Quarry, Woodbury Common © Copyright David Smith and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
