WREDON & WARDLOW QUARRIES A proposal to consolidate the extant planning permissions at Wredon & Wardlow Quarries

Volume 2 Written Supporting Statement

Written Statement Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

WRITTEN STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF A PLANNING APPLICATION TO

CONSOLIDATE THE EXTANT PLANNING PERMISSIONS AT

WREDON AND WARDLOW QUARRIES

This Planning Application is accompanied by an Environmental Statement

October 2009

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

Part 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Applicant 1.2 General 1.3 The Application

Part 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLICATION SITE

2.1 Location 2.2 The Surrounding Area 2.3 Geology 2.4 Planning History

Part 3 DEVELOPMENT DETAILS

3.1 General 3.2 Phased Working Scheme 3.3 Working Methods 3.4 Aggregate Processing 3.5 Access and Traffic 3.6 Water Management 3.7 Restoration

Part 4 REVIEW OF PLANNING GUIDANCE

4.1 Introduction 4.2 Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPG) 4.3 Planning Policy Statements (PPS) 4.4 Mineral Planning Policy Guidance Notes (MPG) 4.5 Mineral Planning Statements (MPS) 4.6 Regional Spatial Strategy for the West Midlands – 2008 (RSS) 4.7 Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan 1996 – Adopted 2001 4.8 Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Minerals Local Plan 1994 – 2006 (Adopted 1999)

K10/WS/Contents/JBH/October 2009 STATUS: FINAL Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

4.9 Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan - 1994

Part 5 CASE FOR APPROVAL

Part 6 APPLICATION FORMS, NOTICES AND CERTIFICATES

Part 7 APPENDICES

Appendix 1 Planning Permission – IDO/SM/10 Appendix 2 Planning Permission – 6079 Appendix 3 Planning Permission – 7985 Appendix 4 Planning Permission – ES 13809/02 – SM 13783 Appendix 5 Planning Permission – SM 552/87 Appendix 6 Planning Permission – IDO/SM/10 (ID586) Appendix 7 Staffordshire County Council email Dated 8 June 2007

Part 8 DRAWINGS

Section 1 Planning Application Area/ Company Boundary W69/61 Section 2 Extant Planning Permissions K35/03a Section 3 Location Plan W69/62 Section 4 Development Phase 1 W69/64 Section 5 Development Phase 2 W69/65 Section 6 Development Phase 3 W69/66 Section 7 Maximum Permitted Development W69/63 Section 8 Location of Photo Views ST 10772/01 Section 9 Visual Impact Assessment – Public Access Routes ST 10772/02 Section 10 Noise Monitoring and Predication Locations ST 10772/03 Section 11 Photo views 1-12 inclusive Section 12 Interim Restoration ST 10772/06 Section 13 Phased Restoration ST 10772/08 Section 14 Final Concept Restoration ST 10772/07

K10/WS/Contents/JBH/October 2009 STATUS: FINAL Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

FOREWORD

Tarmac Limited is applying for planning permission to consolidate the extant planning permissions relating to the Wredon and Wardlow Quarries.

The proposal if permitted involves the surrender of the existing six (6) planning permissions relevant to these quarry operations.

By effectively combining and unifying the varying end dates of these extant planning permissions these strategic reserves of high quality carboniferous limestone will be secured, being part of the only limestone resource in the County of Stafford.

This Statement and Application have been prepared following discussions with the Mineral Planning Authority which have identified the individual topics now considered within the Environmental Statement.

This Volume is one (1) of three (3) separately bound documents, which together constitute the Environmental Statement and Planning Application these are:

Volume 1 Environmental Statement including the Non Technical Summary Volume 2 Planning Application including fee and application forms, notices etc. Free Standing Non-Technical Summary

Any comments on the Application should be made to:

R Vearncombe Esq Team Leader – County Development Staffordshire County Council Riverway Stafford ST16 3TJ

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Should you require further information on this proposal please contact:

G Fyles Esq Tarmac Limited Tunstead House SK17 8TG

Telephone 01298 768 555

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PART 1

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Applicant

1.1.1 Tarmac Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Anglo American Plc one of the worlds largest mining and natural resources companies. Tarmac Limited is the UK Market leader in aggregates, mortar, concrete blocks and coated roadstone. Accordingly the Company is a vital provider to the UK’s built environment including the maintenance of houses, roads, railways, offices, schools, hospitals and all other sectors of the built economy.

1.1.2 Tarmac operates an Environmental Management System (EMS) accredited to ISO 14001. The Company has received a number of environmental awards for quarry restoration within the UK and intend that these proposals for Wredon and Wardlow Quarries will provide opportunities to undertake further high quality restoration through the implementation of the proposed interim and final restoration schemes.

1.2 General

1.2.1 Quarrying operations at Wredon and Wardlow have been undertaken for some 60 years plus under various planning permissions commencing in 1946 with the issue of planning permission IDO/SM/10.

1.2.2 Wredon Quarry is operated under the following planning permissions:

 IDO/SM/10 dated 7 June 1946 and registered on 10 May 1993 under the provisions of the Planning and Compensation Act 1991. and  SM 13783 dated 16 April 1986 and  ES 13809/02 dated 16 April 1986

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These planning permissions are shown on Drg. No. K35/03a included at Part 8 – Section 2.

1.2.3 Wardlow Quarry is operated under the following planning permissions:

 6069 dated 23 August 1965 and  7985 dated 9 October 1969 and  SM 552/87 dated 3 May 1988

These planning permissions are shown on Drg. No. K35/03a included at Part 8 – Section 2.

1.2.4 Planning Permissions SM 13783, ES 13809/2 and SM552/87 will be the subject of review under the provisions of the Environmental Act 1995, in September 2010. By the grant of planning permission in respect of this proposal such reviews will become unnecessary.

1.2.5 The current permitted reserves of limestone at Wredon and Wardlow are approximately 28.4 million tonnes to be extracted at a yearly rate of 1 million tonnes via a 3 phase programme – See Drgs. W69/64, 65 and 66 at Part 8 Sections 4, 5 and 6 respectively.

1.3 The Application

1.3.1 The proposal consolidates the extant planning permissions at Wredon and Wardlow Quarries in order that they may be worked as a single entity resulting in a more efficient and sustainable operation and includes for immediate interim landscaping measures – See Drg. No. ST 10772/06 at Part 8 Section 12.

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1.3.2 This application proposes to extract 28.4 million tonnes of permitted carboniferous limestone reserves at the Wredon / Wardlow Quarries as authorised by those Planning Permissions previously listed at Paragraphs 1.2.2 and 1.2.3 to the extant permitted depths of working.

1.3.3 The combined annual output will be of the order of 1 million tonnes giving an operational life of some 28 / 29 years.

1.3.4 This application seeks consent to work these permitted reserves in 3 phases so ensuring the availability of these strategic limestone reserves which are of importance both to the County and Region.

1.3.5 The application is accompanied by an Environmental Statement and includes a fully phased working scheme, interim restoration measures, and a phased comprehensive final restoration scheme and strategy.

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PART 2

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLICATION SITE

2.1 Location

2.1.1 The Application Site extending to some 52ha is situated with the Staffordshire Moorlands District lying some 9km west of Ashbourne, 20km east of Stoke on Trent with the Peak District National Park 4km to the north – See Part 8 Section 1 – Drawing W69/61.

2.1.2 The nearest dwellings are Walk and Weaver Farms approximately 500m and 1000m to the east respectively. With Tenement Farm some 1000m to the west. See Part 8 - Section 3 – Drawing W69/62.

2.1.3 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries are sited on the higher ground above the hill slopes and each has a single excavated void. The boundary between the two quarries has been partially removed, but their external boundaries are contained within perimeter mounds. These excavated voids are screened almost entirely from external views by these mounds or the adjacent landform. There is no plant remaining at Wardlow Quarry, although the concrete bases and plinths remain on the higher levels of the quarry adjacent to its boundary with Wredon Quarry. At Wredon Quarry the plant is situated on the quarry floor at the western end of the void, and includes a modern coating plant. Both the quarries are accessed off the A52 to the north with a shared access road.

2.1.4 There is a substantial change in elevation across the site with the ground ranging from 225m AOD to350m AOD. Much of the site has been previously disturbed by mineral extraction operations with the exception of the perimeter mounds and the built up tip areas at the nearby Kevin Quarry.

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2.2 The Surrounding Area

2.2.1 The Weaver Hills attain heights of 371m AOD at the The Walk and have further summits ranging from 350m to 365m AOD, in a ridge running northwest to south east across the northern portion of the site. To the south and east, the land drops away to the Churnet and Dove valleys at around 90m AOD, though a series of deeply incised valleys. To the north beyond the Weaver Hills the land forms an area of undulating upland plateau before dropping down into the heavily folded landscape characteristic of the White Peak in the southern Peak District.

2.2.2 The landuse in this area is diverse, and the various quarries are an integral part of the local scene. Elsewhere on the uplands the land is predominantly permanent pasture with blocks of shelterbelt woodland. On the lower ground the land is also frequently agricultural, but there is also a significant amount of woodland, both broadleaved and coniferous, several large estate parklands and Alton Towers Leisure Park.

2.2.3 On the higher ground to the north the fields are large and regular in shape, and generally bounded by drystone wall in varying condition. On the lower ground the fields are substantially smaller, less regular and bounded by mature hedges with a good incidence of hedgerow trees.

2.3 Geology

2.3.1 Regional Geology

Wredon and Wardlow Quarries lie at the south-westerly corner of the outcrop of Lower Carboniferous (Dinantian) rocks of the Peak District, in an area which is commonly termed the “Staffordshire Shelf”.

The quarries are excavated into the Kevin and the Milldale Limestones, the former overlying the latter.

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The Kevin Limestone comprises a sequence of pale grey, thickly bedded calcarenites with an overall maximum thickness of 180m within the area of the adjacent Kevin Quarry but thinning to the north. They are noted for their

high chemical purity (>98.5% CaCO3) and uniformity, although small variations have been recorded, especially in beds adjacent to clay wayboards. At the south-eastern end of the Weaver Hills, these shelf limestones pass laterally eastwards into Apron Reef deposits.

The Milldale Limestone is a variable sequence of medium and dark grey, well-bedded, finely bioclastic limestone with large knoll reefs. This formation is approximately 470m thick with the upper 100m exposed in Wardlow Quarry. They are generally of medium to high purity (>93.5% to <98.5%

CaCO3) and contain substantial and variable amounts of silica, alumina and iron. The high iron values are associated with the widespread haematite staining of the beds. The limestone becomes more argillaceaous as they pass north-eastwards into the off-shelf area.

To the immediate north of the Wredon / Wardlow Complex lies a major northwest/southeast aligned fault which downthrows to the southwest by an unknown amount. Owing to this fault, the Kevin Limestones have been locally juxtaposed against the Milldale Limestones. This fault is visible within the north eastern face of Wardlow Quarry.

The limestones within the Wredon / Wardlow Quarries are affected by well defined and persistent vertical joints of variable frequency. Small amounts of clay infill are generally associated with these features.

2.3.2 Reserve Estimation The remaining permitted reserves at the Wredon / Wardlow Quarries amount in total to some 28.4 million tonnes of which approximately 3 million tonnes lie beneath the average groundwater table.

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The reserves yielded by this 3 phase programme are set out as follows:

Phase Reserves Annual Output Life Million Tonnes Million Tonnes Years 1 11.4 1 11 2 3.8 1 4 3 13.2 1 13 4 Restoration 2 TOTAL 28.4 30 including restoration

2.4 Planning History

2.4.1 Historically the Planning Permission IDO/SM/10 dated 7 June 1946 and registered on 10 May 1993 formed the basis on which Wredon Quarry operated until the issue in April 1986 of Planning Permissions ES 13809/02 and SM 13783.

2.4.2 At the Wardlow Quarry working was originally authorised under Consent 6079 dated 23 August 1965 until the issue in October 1969 of Permission 7985 and subsequently in May 1988 by the issue of Planning Permission SM552/87.

2.4.3 A series of Planning Permissions for the extraction of limestone have been granted in relation to the Wredon / Wardlow Complex and these are listed below in date order:

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Ref Date Development IDO/SM/10 7/6/1946 Quarry workings and plant Wredon Quarry for T. W. Ward. 6079 23/8/1965 Extension to working of quarry at Limestone Quarry, Wardlow for Messrs. Inns and Co. Ltd. 7985 9/10/1969 Additional quarrying of stone and formation of banks to provide screening of workings at Wardlow Quarry, Cauldon Low for Redland Roadstone Ltd. ES 13809/02 16/04/1986 Quarrying limestone on 18 acres at SM 13783 Wredon Quarry, Cauldon Lowe, Waterhouses, Staffs ST10 3HA. SM 552/87 3/05/1988 Completion of screening bund, deepening of the quarry, the removal of old plant, the installation of new plant at a lower level within the quarry and the temporary retention of a stocking ground at Wardlow Quarry, Cauldon Lowe. IDO/SM/10 10/5/1993 Registration of the permission in (ID 586) respect of Quarry workings and erection of tarmacadam and crushing plant at Wredon Quarry.

Refer to Part 7 – Appendices 1 – 6 inclusive.

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PART 3

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

3 DEVELOPMENT DETAILS

3.1 General

3.1.1 The purpose of this planning application is to consolidated those previous planning permissions issued by the relevant Planning Authorities of the time in relation to Wredon and Wardlow Quarries the proposal being totally within the extant planning permission foot print. There will be no deepening of the working below the maximum permitted levels.

3.1.2 With the exception of the removal of small volumes for specific contracts from Wredon the operations at the Wredon / Wardlow Complex are presently temporarily suspended with current limestone production being concentrated at the Cauldon Lowe Quarry. On recommencement of operations the existing processing and coated roadstone plants will either be refurbished or replaced. – See Part 8 Section 4 Drawing W69/64 – Development Phase 1.

3.1.3 The proposed level of annual production at Wredon / Wardlow as previous will continue to be of the order of 1 million tonnes consisting of some 80% in the form of construction aggregates the remaining 20% being coated roadstone products.

3.2 Phased Working Scheme

3.2.1 The proposal would be worked in a phased manner and direction as detailed on Drawings W69/64 – 65 – 66 at Part 8 – Sections 4, 5 and 6 respectively. Site development is divided into 3 main phases of extraction including phased elements of the final restoration scheme followed by its completion on the exhaustion of Development Phase 3.

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3.2.2 Phase 1 – Duration 11/12 years (Drawing No. W69/64) at Part 8 Section 4. The principle objective of this Phase is to remove the central spine currently separating the Wredon and Wardlow Quarries to a depth of 275m AOD, so realising some 11.4 million tonnes of high quality limestone. The direction of working is shown on Drg No. W69/64.

3.2.3 Phase 2 – Duration 4 years (Drawing No. W69/65) at Part 8 Section 5. Working would resume in the former Wardlow Quarry area and progress in a south-westerly direction yielding some 3.8 million tonnes. The present south western screening mound would be progressively removed and utilised in the site restoration.

The removal of the south western screening mound will be undertaken in two (2) stages:  Stage 1 The northern section would be removed in an west to east direction commencing from Wardlow Quarry.  Stage 2 The southern section would be removed in an east to west operation from the eastern boundary of Wredon Quarry towards Wardlow Quarry.

This staged programme provides for the temporary retention of the southern section of the south western mound.

3.2.4 Phase 3 – Duration 13 years (Drawing No. W69/66) at Part 8 Section 6. This final phase of the 3 phase programme will require the removal of the fixed processing plant being replaced with mobile processing plant and yield some 13.2 million tonnes. The location of Phase 3 falls totally within the area permitted by IDO/SM/10, and will be worked to a final depth of 200m AOD.

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3.2.5 Restoration Phase – Duration 2 years – Drawing No. ST 10772/08 at Part 8 Section 13.

With completion of the permitted extraction programme, and thereafter over a period of some 2 years the final restoration works will be completed and managed for a period of 5 years. As the quarry workings deepen progressive bench restoration will be undertaken with the final quarry floor being treated by the placement of quarry waste and overburden and thereafter sown with an appropriate seed mix. The total restoration programme may be summarised as follows:  Interim Landscape Improvements – See Drg No. ST10772/06 at Part 8 Section 12. o Wredon / Wardlow Ridgeline . Remove stock from skyline . Regrade Wredon western tips . Reconfigure Wardlow southern limits . Close off gap between south banks o Wardlow Entrance Works . Remove redundant buildings and plant o Wredon / Wardlow Boundary . Remove former plant bases and hard standings . Soften profile of rock bluffs  Progressive Interim restoration o As the quarry workings deepen progressive bench restoration will be undertaken  Final Restoration – See Drg No. ST10772/07 at Part 8 Section 14. o The final stages of the Phase Restoration Scheme will comprise the following actions . The removal of the Quarry plant and establishment of Calcareous grassland on the former overburden mound to Wredon along the southern boundaries of the site.

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. Establishment of grassland on benches within the quarry boundaries . Re-establishment and strengthening the remains of woodland to the northern boundary . Blasting will be undertaken to retained faces to vary landform and increase habitats

3.3 Working Methods

3.3.1 The modern well tried and traditional method of working limestone at the Wredon / Wardlow Complex will continue to be employed by drill and blast techniques with loading out by mechanical excavator to rubber tyred dump trucks for transport to the processing plant.

3.4 Aggregate Processing

3.4.1 Following transport of the “as won” mineral to the processing plant these minerals are then taken forward through a series of processes which crush and grade the limestone into various end products prior to their dispatch to market.

3.5 Access and Traffic

3.5.1 The Wredon / Wardlow Complex is accessed by an existing modern T junction with the A52 Stoke on Trent to Ashbourne Road. – See Part 8 Section 3 – Drawing W69/62.

3.5.2 Based upon a continuing annual output of 1 million tonnes with an average payload of 18 tonnes, 48 working weeks per year and a 5 ½ day working week the site would generate 210 outbound HGV trips per working day.

3.5.3 In terms of traffic activity this consolidation proposal does not increase the level of traffic generated by the previous combined operations at Wredon and Wardlow Quarries as permitted by the existing planning permissions.

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3.6 Water Management

3.6.1 In order to maximise this strategic limestone reserve it will be necessary as part of Phase 3 of the Phased working scheme to extract some 3 million tonnes from beneath the ground water table. This activity will require the dewatering of the workings and which will be the subject of a Water Transfer Licence submission.

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PART 4

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

4 REVIEW OF PLANNING GUIDANCE

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 In preparing this proposal for consolidation of the extant planning permissions at the Wredon / Wardlow Quarries and for the ultimate restoration of the site, the applicant has had due regard to the National, Regional and Local policies relating to land use planning.

4.1.2 Minerals can only be worked where they occur which location has been determined over many years by natural processes. Planning Guidance provides the aims and objectives in order to balance the need for minerals, they are essential for almost every aspect of modern life and for economic development, against the potential adverse effects of such development. Where consent for mineral extraction is granted Planning Guidance should ensure that mitigation measures are taken to minimise any adverse effects on the environment and local communities.

4.1.3 The necessity to balance the needs of society is reflected in guidance at National, Regional and Local levels. At the National and Regional levels Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPG), Planning Policy Statements (PPS) Minerals Planning Guidance Notes (MPG), Minerals Policy Statement (MPS) and Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) are important. Locally it is the current Structure Plan, Local Development Plans, and Minerals and Waste Local Plans.

4.1.4 The current Structure Plan concerning the application area is the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan – 2002 which includes specific policies on minerals development. The local plans are the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Minerals Local Plan – 1999 and the Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan. All of these local Development Plans contain policies relevant to minerals development and which are considered individually later in this text.

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4.2 Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPG)

4.2.1 These notes are prepared and published by Government to explain the Statutory Provisions and provide guidance on planning policy

4.2.2 PPG 24 – Planning and Noise Paragraph 8 introduces the concept of Noise Exposures categories ranging from A to D to assist local planning authorities in their consideration of applications for residential development. Such factors in relation to mineral proposals are contained with Mineral Policy Statement 2 (MPS 2) referred to later in this text. With the continuing implementation of the existing management controls then the proposal will not exceed the noise criteria set out in MPS2.

4.3 Planning Policy Statements (PPS)

4.3.1 These Statements and their replacement Planning Policy Statements are prepared by Government in order to explain the statutory provisions and provide guidance to all on planning policy and the operation of the planning system.

4.3.2 PPS 1 – Delivering Sustainable Development Paragraphs 21 and 22 deal with the prudent use of natural resources which means ensuring that these resources are used wisely and efficiently and in a manner that respects the needs of future generations. The broad aim should be to ensure that outputs are maximised whilst resources used are minimised.

Paragraph 40 recognises the importance of involving the community in the planning process and the achievement of sustainable development. The applicant by this submission has demonstrated its support for the aims and objectives set out in PPS 1.

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4.3.3 PPS 7 – Sustainable Development in Rural Areas The Governments objectives for rural areas include the raising of the quality of life and the environment through, amongst other measures, sustainable economic growth.

Paragraph 1 effectively repeats the provisions of Paragraphs 21 and 22 of PPS 1 regarding the prudent use of natural resources.

Paragraph 5 states that planning authorities should support a wide range of economic activities in rural areas.

Paragraph 15 provides for planning policies that are positive in regard to supporting land based activities and make the most of new recreational opportunities, paying due regard to planning designations as to conservation, landscape etc.

The proposals in respect of the Wredon / Wardlow Complex demonstrate the Company’s commitment to the local economy and further its responsible approach to conservation.

4.3.4 PPS 23 – Planning and Pollution Control This guidance together with Annex’s 1 and 2 is concerned with pollution control as to air, water and contaminated land. With regard to mineral development proposals those issues relating to dust and noise are considered in detail in MPS 2 – Controlling and Mitigating the Environmental Effects of Minerals Extraction in together with Annex’s 1 and 2 dealing with Dust and Noise respectively. The guidance provided by MPS 2 is referred to later in the text. The Company having commissioned air quality surveys are advised that it is unlikely that any decrease in local air quality will occur due to this proposal nor will air quality criteria is exceeded. This proposal will not cause any increase in the risk to health.

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4.3.5 PPS 25 – Development and Flood Risk The aims of this guidance through the planning process is to take into account at all stages of a development, by appraisal, management and reduction of risk so avoiding inappropriate development.

4.4 Mineral Planning Policy Guidance Notes (MPG)

4.4.1 Mineral Planning Guidance Notes (MPG) and their replacements Mineral Policy Statements (MPS) set out the Government’s policy on minerals and planning issues and provide advice and guidance to local authorities and the minerals industry on policies and the operation of the planning system with regard to minerals.

4.4.2 MPG 2 – Applications, Permissions and Conditions Planning conditions should be necessary, relevant to planning, and the development, enforceable, precise and reasonable. The information and description contained within this application and accompanying Environmental Statement are such as will enable the local planning authority to prepare proper and reasonable conditions should this proposal be permitted, which will result in major improvements in terms of clarity relating to the present position as to duplication, dual consents over common areas resulting in contradictory consents and conditions.

4.4.3 MPG 5 – Stability in Surface Mineral Workings and Tips The applicant Company has prepared the working design and phasing scheme for the extraction of limestone and restoration at the Wredon / Wardlow Complex taking into account such matters as land stability etc.

4.4.4 MPG 7 – The Reclamation of Mineral Workings The concept restoration scheme for the site adheres to the guidance as to multi- purpose restoration and afteruses. Attention has been given to the after use management of this scheme.

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4.5 Mineral Planning Statements (MPS)

4.5.1 Mineral Policy Statements (MPS) set out the Government’s policy in minerals and planning issues and provides advice and guidance to local authorities and the minerals industry on policies and the operation of the planning system with regard to minerals.

4.5.2 MPS 1 – Planning and Minerals with Annex 1 MPS 1 sets out the Governments national objectives and planning policies for all minerals and ancillary policy objectives for aggregates in England. The guidance acknowledges that “Minerals are essential to the nation’s prosperity and quality of life not least in helping to create and develop sustainable communities”.

This application satisfies the requirements as set out in MPS 1 in relation to:  The national objectives for mineral planning  The protection of heritage and countryside  The supply of aggregates  Bulk transportation  Environmental Protection  Efficient use  Restoration

Within the national supply and demand scenario there are acknowledged geographical imbalances these imbalances leading to the need to maintain a mixture of sites that variously contribute to satisfying the local, regional and national demands, with the resultant need to monitor, review and update this developing situation on an annual basis. It is recognised that the landbank requirement for crushed rock should be for “ … at least 10 years. A longer period may be appropriate to take account of the need to supply a range of types of aggregate, location of permitted reserves relative to market, and productive capacity of permitted sites”.

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This proposal does not increase the Crushed Rock Landbank either within the Region or County.

4.5.3 MPS 2 – With Annex 1 (Dust and Annex 2 (Noise) Controlling and Mitigating the Environmental Effects of Minerals Extraction in England. The Applicant and its advisors have in their consideration of the structure and design of this proposal taken into account the guidance and policies set out in MPS 2 and accompanying Annexes.

4.5.3.1 Air Quality The mobile plant required to work this site in the last two (2) years of production has the potential to generate dust in the immediate vicinity of their operations. The likelihood of problems caused by dust will be largely influenced by the effectiveness of on site environmental control. Hence potential dust sources have been identified and best practice dust control measures are recommended and will be practised in order to minimise any such disturbance at nearby sensitive locations. The current dust climate has been assessed and reported as good and typical of a rural area. Climatic conditions local to the site have been assessed and analysed to give an indication of how often the site could be susceptible to fugitive dust events, such occasions are relatively few. See Environmental Statement – Appendix 4.

4.5.3.2 Noise The working of any mineral deposit has the potential to create a certain degree of environmental disturbance to locations in its immediate vicinity. This may be in the form of noise and it is therefore essential that any such potential is recognised and tightly controlled by safe and up to date site working practices and by strict site management. Accordingly, the existing noise climate has been assessed at five (5) locations, See Table 1 following and predictions of maximum likely future noise levels due to site operations have been

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undertaken for a number of noise sensitive properties in accordance with the relevant British Standards. All the predicted noise levels refer to worst case scenarios, when operations are undertaken at their closest distances to sensitive properties and therefore have the greatest influence on the noise climate at these locations. The daytime noise levels have been assessed against and comply with criteria in the existing Planning Consent and Minerals Policy Statement 2 (MPS 2) 2005. See Environmental Statement Appendix 3.

TABLE 1 Location Existing Noise Predicted Noise Levels Background Levels L90 I Hour

L.Aeq T LA90 T Operation dB(A) Hillcrest 49.1 43.0 Road Traffic 61.5 43.0 Company P1 Extraction 50.2 Property Weaver 46.9 38.5 Road Traffic 54.2 38.5 Cottages P3 Extraction 42.9 Walk Farm 44.8 38.2 P2 Extraction 43.0 38.2 Tenement 43.6 38.7 P1 Extraction 42.5 38.7 Farm White 52.0 42.2 Road Traffic 54.3 42.2 House P1 Extraction 47.2

The assessment indicates that the noise impact of mineral extraction on surrounding properties would be minor with the site being capable of operation within the MPS2 Guidance. The most significant noise impact would arise at Hillcrest located alongside the hard surfaced access road. However, mitigation measures are included within the Noise Report at Part 7 of the accompanying Environmental Statement which would be implemented subject to the approval of this proposal.

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4.6 Regional Spatial Strategy for the West Midlands -2008 (RSS)

4.6.1 The Regional Spatial Strategy issued in January 2008 sets out a long term spatial strategy to guide the development of the West Midlands. The overall vision being one of an economically successful outward looking and adaptable Region.

4.6.2 The Environment and Minerals are specifically dealt with in Chapter 8 of the RSS and of particular relevance to this submission are:

 Part 1 Environment Paragraphs 8.23 to 8.25 with Policy QE6  Part 3 Minerals Paragraphs 8.64 to 8.66 with Policy M2

4.6.3 Environment

“8.23 The special qualities of Cannock Chase, the Cotswolds, Malvern Hills, Shropshire Hills and the Wye Valley are nationally recognised by their statutory designation as AONBs (the Peak District National Park is covered by RPG 8 for the ). This status must be reflected by the level of protection given to them in development plans. Detailed guidance on the treatment of AONBs and local countryside designations is set out in PPG 7.

8.24 Beyond these designated areas, the character and distinctiveness of the wider countryside must also be respected and opportunities to enhance and restore the quality of existing landscapes should be actively pursued (QE 7).

8.25 In this context the urban fringe is recognised in PPG 7 as being subject to particular pressures. For may residents of urban areas

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it represents their nearest countryside and is a highly valuable resource for leisure and recreational opportunities as well as nature conservation. Local authorities and their partners should take a proactive and integrated approach to its planning and management having particular regard to Policies QE 2, QE 4 and QE8”.

Policy QE 6 The conservation, enhancement and restoration of the Region’s landscape.

Local authorities and other agencies, in their plans, policies and proposals should conserve, enhance and, where necessary, restore the quality, diversity and distinctiveness of landscape character throughout the Region’s urban and rural areas by:

i) ensuring that a consistent approach is taken to landscape and character issues, particularly where they cross local planning authority boundaries;

ii) establishing a positive and integrated approach to the use, management and enhancement of the urban fringe;

iii) supporting the Community Forest and National Forest programmes;

iv) protecting and, where possible, enhancing natural, man-made and historic features that contribute to the character of the landscape and townscape, and local distinctiveness;

v) considering other factors that contribute to landscape character including tranquillity and the minimisation of noise and light pollution; and

vi) identifying opportunities for the restoration of degraded landscapes including current and proposed minerals working and waste disposal sites.

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This proposal conforms with the requirements of this Policy.

4.6.4 Minerals

“8.57 The West Midlands contains areas where there are deposits of Eturia marl, gypsum and silica sand which are nationally important minerals, along with limestone important in the production of cement. There are also significant reserves of aggregates, building stone, shale, coal and other clays, including fireclays. Some are of Regional significance, for example building stone, and brickshale and fireclay which are important to the Region’s brick industry. Whilst there are pockets of metalliferous minerals, these are not significant and are not subject to current or future proposals for exploitation.

8.58 In line with national guidance, the aim of Regional policies is to encourage the prudent use of available mineral resources and to maintain an appropriate on-going supply.

8.62 The working and restoration of mineral sites will need to be carried out to the highest possible environmental and operational standards if sustainable development objectives are to be met. This should include wherever possible the delivery of minerals and mineral related products by sustainable transport but proposals for rail or water borne transport must be realistic and capable of being delivered. Before drafting plans for mineral working, it will be essential to assess the likely generation of traffic and its impact upon the local highway network.

8.63 In restoring sites, there may be opportunities to increase and enhance woodland cover, biodiversity and habitats (see policies QE 6 – 7), public access and in some cases provide sports and recreation provision. Where there are extensive mineral workings

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in river valleys, this may have the potential to make significant contributions to retaining and improving landscape character and meeting local and Regional biodiversity targets.

8.64 Aggregates such as sand and gravel, crushed rock and a range of secondary and recycled materials used for construction purposes are the most widely used minerals found within the West Midlands. The Region nevertheless relies on imports of mineral from other regions and Wales for 23.3% of its requirements (source: Collation of the results of the 2001 aggregates minerals survey for England and Wales, January 2003).

8.65 The National and Regional Guidelines for Aggregates Provision in England 2001 – 2016 published in June 2003 sets out current Government guidelines for aggregates provision from 2001 – 2016, based on technical advice from the Regional Aggregates Working Parties and long-term demand studies. It identifies a need for 255 million tonnes of aggregate materials to be provided from primary land won sources within the West Midlands, with an additional 104 million tonnes from other sources, including imports from outside the Region and from Wales and secondary and recycled materials. The projections also provide for the export of primary aggregates to other regions.

8.66 These Guidelines for the supply of land won primary aggregates, together with the arrangements for monitoring and review and the performance indicators, should be used to guide mineral planning authorities in making appropriate provision in their development plans for the future supply of aggregates in the West Midlands. The figures shown in Table 1 of Policy M 2 reflect the situation in the West Midlands County Area where in approximately 3-4 years time reserves of crushed rock will be exhausted. The West Midlands County Area apportionment has been redistributed from

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2006 onwards between the counties of Warwickshire and Shropshire on the basis that these counties have similar rock types and are therefore more likely to be able to meet any shortfall in the local market.”

Policy M 2 Minerals – Aggregates

Mineral planning authorities should continue to work together to make provision for land won primary aggregates to 2016 on the basis of the apportionment agreed by the RPB, taking into account the National and Regional Guidelines for Aggregates Provision in England 2001 – 2016 (June 2003) as set out below:

Policy M2 – Table 1 Apportionment of the Regional Guidelines 2001 – 2016 (million tonnes)

Annual Annual Annual Apportionment Apportionment Apportionment 2001 – 2016 2001 – 2005 2006 – 2016 Sand and Gravel Crushed Rock Crushed Rock Hereford 0.283 0.424 0.424 Worcestershire 0.871 0.163 0.163 Shropshire 0.820 2.662 2.949 Staffordshire 6.602 1.395 1.395 West Midlands 0.506 0.575 0 County Regional Total 10.125 5.812 5.812 Regional Total 162 93 2001 – 2016 Source: WMRAWP sub-regional apportionment October 2003

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4.6.5 The Regional Aggregates Apportionments are now agreed and implemented through the Regional Aggregates Working Party and which for the West Midlands Region for the period 2001 – 2016 are:

County Tonnes – Million (Crushed Rock) Hereford 6.8 Worcestershire 2.6 Shropshire 45.7 Warwickshire 12.7 West Midlands 2.9 Staffordshire 22.3

TOTAL Crushed Rock 93.0

4.6.6 This proposal does not increase the Crushed Rock Landbank either within the Region or County.

4.7 Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Structure Plan 1996 – Adopted 2001

4.7.1 Prepared jointly by Staffordshire County Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council and proposes a broad planning framework for the period 1996-2011. The purpose of the Structure Plan is threefold:

 To ensure that provision for development is realistic and consistent with national and regional policy.  To provide a strategic policy framework for development control by setting out the policies and general proposals for land use.  To provide a framework for local plans in Staffordshire, including local plans for Minerals and Waste.

4.7.2 Chapter 5 sets out the General Development Policies which are applicable to all forms of development. Policy D1 addresses “Sustainable forms of

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development” and in particular states that sustainable forms and patterns of new development would be sought which fulfill various requirements, including:

Policy D1 “e) minimise the consumption of all resources, particularly those which are non-renewable such as land (especially the best and most versatile agricultural land) and minerals;

f) protect and, wherever possible, enhance natural and cultural assets, including open spaces;

g) ensure that the interests of regeneration in adjoining urban areas are not prejudiced;

h) have regard to the long term implications of development proposals, the implementation of which may run beyond the end of the Plan period;

i) have regard to the location and effects of existing nearby land uses with the potential to generate pollution which could have an unacceptably detrimental effect on the proposed development.”

4.7.3 Policy D2 provides that development proposals should generally conserve and where possible improve the quality of life and the environment, and sets out a number of guidelines.

Policy D2 “(a) be informed by, or sympathetic to, the character and qualities of its surroundings, in its location, scale and design;

(c) minimise pollution of land, water and air, waste generation, nuisance from noise, and pollution by artificial sources of light;

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(e) include pollution prevention measures to prevent contamination of controlled waters, be connected to the foul sewerage system, whenever feasible, and not proceed ahead of the ability of water supply, sewerage and sewage treatment systems to effectively service the proposed development;”

4.7.4 It is considered that the proposals set out in this application accord with these general principles, as the individual sections of the Environmental Statement demonstrate.

4.7.5 This proposal to consolidate the extant planning permissions at the Wredon and Wardlow Quarries in order to permit these previously independently operated sites to be worked and restored as a single entity will result in a more efficient and sustainable operation whilst remaining within the conditions attaching to the extant planning permissions.

4.7.6 Chapter 9 sets out a series of policies protecting and enhancing natural and cultural assets within the County. Policy NC1 considers the protection of the countryside and provides that the countryside should be protected for its own sake. “Development which is acceptable with respect to other Structure Plan policies should respect the character of the countryside and maintain or improve the environment”. Referring to Paragraph 9.1 of the Explanatory Memorandum that accompanies the Structure Plan, it is recognized that the local character and distinctiveness has resulted from a continuous inter- relationship between human activity, the physical elements of the land, and the plants and animals that populate it. The countryside and the built environment remain in a state of evolution, and the inevitability of change is recognized in the Plan. The paragraph goes on to state that “However, within that context the maintenance of environmental quality requires that special attention be paid to the safeguarding of all of those elements that contribute to diversity, character and distinctiveness. Particular emphasis will be placed on the conservation, enhancement and restoration of landscapes, the maintenance and promotion of biodiversity and the maintenance and

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enhancement of the quality of the historic environment, both within settlements and in the wider countryside”. In the context of this Planning Application it is to be borne in mind that the purpose of this submission is to consolidate the extant planning permissions relating to both Wredon and Wardlow Quarries and does not constitute “new” development beyond that currently permitted.

4.7.7 Policy NC2 builds upon the previous policy, by considering landscape protection and restoration.

Policy NC2 “Development should be informed by and be sympathetic to landscape character and quality and should contribute, as appropriate, to the regeneration, restoration, enhancement, maintenance or active conservation of the landscape likely to be affected. Proposals with landscape and visual implications will be assessed having regard to the extent to which they would:

(a) cause unacceptable visual harm; (b) introduce (or conversely remove) incongruous landscape elements; (c) cause the disturbance or loss of (or conversely help to maintain): (i) landscape elements that contribute to local distinctiveness; (ii) historic elements which contribute significantly to landscape character and quality, such as field, settlement or road patterns; (iii) semi-natural vegetation which is characteristic of that landscape type; (iv) the visual condition of landscape elements; (v) tranquillity.”

Part 5 of the Environmental Statement addresses the landscape issues in detail, and demonstrates that there would be no significant impact. Indeed, it is considered that the restoration proposals would bring about significant landscape improvements, and therefore the spirit of the policy is not compromised.

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4.7.8 Policies NC6, NC7A, NC7B, NC7C and NC8 seek to protect important semi- natural habitats, international, national and local nature conservation interests and protected species respectively. The proposal does not directly affect any of the nature conservation interests of importance referred to in these policies, and thus would not compromise the provisions of these policies. Part 6 of the Environmental Statement provides an assessment of the likely impacts the development may have upon ecological interests and includes details of the survey work undertaken.

4.7.9 Policy NC 9 affords protection to groundwater resources. The hydrology and hydrogeology assessment at Part 10 of the Environmental Statement states that the Phases 1 and 2 workings will be most unlikely to cause any adverse effects upon the water environment. The Report further identifies the proposed mitigation measures applicable to the Phase 3 working programme which will counter the identified associated impacts.

4.7.10 Policies NC11 and 13 consider the importance of woodlands, hedgerows etc and which are not considered to be relevant to this submission.

4.7.11 Policies NC14 to 18 seek to protect the cultural heritage of the County. Policies afford Archaeological sites, Battlefields, Historic Parks and Gardens, Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas protection against inappropriate development. From a desktop archaeological study the proposals would not affect any significant feature of archaeological or cultural interest.

4.7.12 Chapter 12 sets out the criteria for consideration in mineral and waste proposals with Policy MW3 considers the efficient use of minerals. This policy is not considering to be relevant to this submission involving extant planning permissions.

4.7.13 When evaluating mineral and waste proposals, Policy MW6 provides that they “will be assessed in terms of their social, environmental and economic

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effects in relation to the ability to safeguard, enhance and sustain environmental resources and amenity. The applicant will need to demonstrate that the proposal does not have an unacceptable adverse impact, either on its own or in conjunction with other developments, upon people, transportation systems or the environment.” Parts 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 of the Environmental Statement demonstrate that the proposals would not have a significant adverse impact upon the environment or local amenity of nearby properties or settlements.

4.7.14 The Structure Plan not only makes provision to safeguard the environment and amenity from inappropriate mineral development, but also to promote improvements or enhancements to the environment. In this respect, Policy MW8 states:

Policy MW8 “Where compatible with other planning policies, mineral and/or waste development which will secure landscape or nature conservation improvements, including woodland planting, reclamation of derelict or despoiled land, relevant community benefits or otherwise contribute towards the implementation of the Development Plan will be sympathetically considered. Conversely, development proposals which will conflict with measures to conserve or enhance the environment and economies of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent or otherwise be contrary to the implementation of the Development Plan will be resisted.”

4.7.15 Policy MW9 seeks to ensure that mineral sites are restored to a satisfactory standard. In considering these policies, one of the prime drivers for consolidating the these quarries is to achieve the highest possible quality of restoration for the resultant combined quarry, which will sit comfortably within the landscape.

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4.8 Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Minerals Local Plan 1994 – 2006 (Adopted 1999) “Saved” Policies extended beyond 28 September 2007

4.8.1 In relation to the proposals, the “Saved” policies contained within Chapter 3 “General Policies” and Chapter 9 “Limestone (Crushed Rock)” relate to aggregates provision within the County.

4.8.2 The Minerals Local Plan (MLP) at paragraph 1.17 recognises that minerals are an important national resource and can only be worked where they occur, and further that minerals are a finite resource, and thus the issue of sustainability is important. In amalgamating the two quarries, it is believed by the applicant that a sustainable approach to the future development of the permitted limestone resource can be achieved, so minimising any unnecessary sterilisation of such a valuable resource.

4.8.3 “Saved” Policy 2 commits the Mineral Planning Authority (MPA) to provide and maintain appropriate landbanks through and at the end of the Plan period. The extant permitted reserves of limestone at Wredon and Wardlow form an integral part of the existing limestone landbank.

“Saved” MLP Policy 2: The Mineral Planning Authorities will maintain appropriate landbanks for non energy minerals within the Plan area throughout and at the end of the Plan period in line with national and regional policy guidance compatible with the capacity to adsorb further mineral development without unacceptable adverse impacts upon people, transportation systems or the environment.

4.8.4 “Saved” Policy 9 together with the Code of Practice for Mineral Development sets out the criteria which are to be taken into account in preparing restoration proposals. As previously stated, a prime driver for this application is the provision of a comprehensive and holistic approach to the restoration of the combined mineral workings, providing a scheme which is

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superior to the restoration possibilities of the quarries if considered in isolation so satisfying “saved” Policy 10.

“Saved” MLP Policy 9 : Planning applications should incorporate provision for site restoration and aftercare in accordance with the following principles:

1. The phased extraction and restoration of mineral operations wherever practicable, in order to ensure that the period over which the land is in use for mineral development before being restored is minimised; 2. Take account of the pre-working character of the site, its surroundings, the landscape setting and, where possible, provide for enhancement of the general quality of the landscape and local environment; 3. Make provision for nature conservation, forestry, recreation or amenity after-uses where this is appropriate, and compatible with the Development Plan. Such proposals should include provision for the aftercare of the land for a period of up to five years following completion of restoration or any extended time period agreed between the applicant and/or owner and the Mineral Planning Authority; 4. Where the development lies within areas identified for forestry expansion in the Staffordshire Indicative Forestry Strategy, including those in the National Forest, the Forest of Mercia, and Newcastle Community Woodland Zones, the desirability of establishing significant areas of woodland, while avoiding conflicts with other conservation objectives.

“Saved” MLP Policy 10 : Where necessary the Mineral Planning Authorities will seek, by appropriate legal agreement, to control other matters relevant to the development which cannot be covered by planning conditions, including highway requirements, off-site environmental improvements or nature conservation works, management arrangements (over and above statutory aftercare requirements), relinquishment or modification of planning permissions, afteruse, and the provision of long term environmental monitoring and control systems.

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4.8.5 “Saved” Policy 12 seeks to protect the amenity of nearby properties. In carrying out the Environmental Impact Assessment, particular regard has been given to ensuring that the development proposals do not give rise to adverse impacts. Where possible, impacts have been identified, quantified and compared with relevant standards. Where necessary, mitigation measures have been put forward.

“Saved” MLP Policy 12 : Proposed mineral development should not cause an unacceptable adverse impact on sensitive development around (and in the case of underground workings, overlying) or within the sphere of influence of the site, and along proposed external haul routes except where material planning benefits or, where appropriate, the need for the mineral outweighs the material planning objections.

4.8.6 This submission provides an opportunity for the consolidation and review of 6 extant mineral planning permissions at the Wredon and Wardlow Quarries.

4.8.7 In addressing the issues of natural and cultural heritage “Saved” Policy 19 is considered to be relevant to this submission. In all cases the proposal would not adversely affect any such interest and thus the submission does not compromise these policies.

“Saved” MLP Policy 19 : In considering planning applications for mineral development the effects on the special interest of the following areas will be taken into account:

1. Country parks or other areas set aside for public recreation. 2. Existing or proposed Local Nature Reserves. 3. Grade 1 sites of Biological Importance and Natural Heritage Sites. 4. Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological sites (RIGS). 5. Ancient Woodlands, heathlands, peatlands, unimproved grasslands and other prime semi-natural habitats. 6. Conservation Areas or their settings.

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7. Sites of significant archaeological interest or their settings, areas of historic or archaeological value, historic battlefields, and historic parks and gardens other than those which are registered.

Planning applications for mineral development which would cause any direct or indirect adverse impacts on the essential value of the above areas should demonstrate that mitigation measures and/or any material planning benefits arising from the proposal outweigh the material planning objections. In assessing the impacts a lesser degree of weight will be accorded than would be the case with nationally important sites the subject of MLP Policies 15 and 16.

4.8.8 “Saved” Policy 21 considers the protection of the landscape. In particular, proposals should be sympathetic to landscape character and quality, with visual intrusion minimised. As previously stated a key driver for this development is the ability to produce a sympathetic restoration scheme and in taking account of this, landscape character has formed a key consideration. Furthermore, in designing the working scheme, regard has been given to the potential visual intrusion, and mitigation measures are proposed in order to keep any intrusion to a minimum. – See Part 5 of the accompanying ES.

“Saved” MLP Policy 21 : Minerals development proposals should be informed by and be sympatric to landscape character and quality. Proposals with landscape and visual implications will be assessed having regard to the extent to which they would: a) cause visual intrusion, incapable of satisfactory mitigation; b) introduce, or conversely lead to the removal of incongruous landscape elements; c) cause the disturbance or loss of, or conversely help to maintain; i. landscape elements that contribute to local distinctiveness; ii. historic elements which contribute significantly to landscape character and quality, such as field, settlement or road patterns;

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iii. semi-natural vegetation which is characteristic of that landscape type; iv. the visual condition of landscape elements; v. tranquillity.

Planning applications for mineral development which would cause any unacceptable direct or indirect adverse impacts should demonstrate that any material planning benefits arising from the proposal outweigh the material planning objections. If the benefits would not outweigh the objections then planning permission will only be granted if the need for the mineral outweighs the material planning objections.

4.8.9 “Saved” Policies 24, 25 and 26 concerning Archaeological and Historic Landscape evaluation do not concern this submission being solely for the consolidation of extant mineral extraction planning permissions.

4.8.10 “Saved” Policy 30 considers traffic implications arising from planning applications. This proposal does not affect those traffic conditions presently arising from the working of the permitted reserves of limestone at the Wredon and Wardlow Quarries.

“Saved” MLP Policy 30 : Planning application for mineral development, be accompanied by a Traffic Impact Appraisal and should ensure that:

1. the engineering and structural integrity of approach roads will not be prejudiced by the development; 2. the boundary / dept of extraction and the areas set aside for the deposit / storage of material do not adversely affect the structural integrity of the adjoining public highway; 3. the development does not have an unacceptable adverse impact on public and highway safety;

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4. adequate, well-screened, on-site parking, turning and loading facilities are provided; 5. suitable designed access(es) can be provided with on-site facilities for washing vehicle wheels before leaving the site; 6. the traffic generated by the development can be satisfactorily absorbed into the highway network without causing unacceptable adverse impacts upon people or the environment through, inter alia, noise, vibration, fumes or dust; 7. any adverse impacts caused by the proposed development can be mitigated to the satisfaction of the Mineral Planning Authority and that such mitigation may be secured by a legal agreement and / or planning conditions.

4.8.11 Policy QE 9 of the RSS recognises the multi-functional nature of rivers, lakes and canals, contributing to the quality of landscapes while providing habitats. Previous MLP Policy 34 addressed the need to afford protection to the groundwater and surface water environment. By reference to Section 10 of the accompanying ES it is considered that the proposal is extremely unlikely to cause harm to the water environment during the Phase 1 and 2 operations. The Phase3 working will encounter groundwater and appropriate mitigation measures are proposed and detailed at Part 10 of the ES.

4.8.12 The proposal does not involve the lateral extension of the extant permitted mineral extraction area and therefore does not conflict with Policy 35.

4.8.13 “Saved” Policy 54 concerns the possibilities of a co-ordinated approach for the working and restoration of existing quarries having adjoining boundaries such as Wredon and Wardlow Quarries.

“Saved” MLP Policy 54 : The Mineral Planning Authority will encourage the submission of planning applications which provide for co-ordinated working and restoration of adjoining limestone quarries and improvements to the environment and community as listed below. The Mineral Planning Authority

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will favourable consider a planning application provided that the proposal would not cause an unacceptable adverse impact, that it is compatible with the Development Plan and that its effect is:

1. to reduce environmental and landscape impacts and to produce a satisfactory landform on completion by implementation of appropriate working and restoration proposals; 2. to secure the maximisation of transportation of materials by rail, where practicable; 3. to reduce the environmental and highways impacts of road transportation; 4. to protect and secure the beneficial long term future management of SSSIs and other sites of nature conservation value; 5. to reduce the environmental and community impacts of site operations; and 6. to provide, where appropriate, increased public access, interpretative trails and environmental improvements directly related to the particular development proposal.

4.8.14 This proposal conforms with “Saved” policy 54.

4.9 Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan – November 1994

4.9.1 The Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan together with the Staffordshire Structure Plan, the Minerals Local Plan and the Waste Local Plan form the Development Plans for the area.

4.9.2 Included within the objectives of the Local Plan are: Natural Environment – conserve and improve Industry and Employment – improve job opportunities

4.9.3 The proposal being for the consolidation of the extant planning permissions for the extraction of limestone at Wredon and Wardlow Quarries does not conflict with the Staffordshire Moorlands Local Plan.

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4.9.4 By an email dated 8 June 2007 Staffordshire County Council confirm that due to the overlapping of end dates attaching to the various extant planning permissions to be consolidated it is not considered in this instance that the matching up of the end dates within this consolidation application amounts to development not already authorised and would not be contrary to Regulation 3 and therefore not liable to a planning fee – See Appendix 7 at Part 7.

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PART 5

Written Statement K10 Wredon and Wardlow Quarries Consolidation of extant Planning Permissions

5 CASE FOR APPROVAL

5.1 The Wredon / Wardlow complex is a long established limestone operation which has developed by stages over the years since the late 1940’s.

5.2 The Complex has a modern road access direct onto the A52 Stoke on Trent to Ashbourne Road.

5.3 This Planning Application for the Wredon and Wardlow Complex proposes to consolidate the extant planning permissions.

5.4 The proposal does not involve any increase in area, reserves, outputs etc over that presently permitted.

5.5 Upon approval of this proposal the requirements to review the relevant extant planning permissions under the provisions of the Environment Act 1995 will become unnecessary.

5.6 The total permitted reserves of limestone amount to some 28 million tonnes equating to a working life of 28 years at the continuing historic levels of annual output of 1 million tonnes.

5.7 Throughout the operational life of the Wredon / Wardlow Complex the present limitations imposed under the current planning permissions will continue to operate including:  Working hours  Working depths  Extent of mineral working  Vibration restriction

5.8 This proposal does not affect the level of the Crushed Rock Landbank in the County.

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5.9 Reserves of limestone in Staffordshire are wholly contained in 4 operations located in the north of the County at:  Cauldon Lowe  Wardlow / Wardlow  Kevin  Cauldon Cement Works – Cement production only. The limestone aggregate resources in Staffordshire are therefore contained within the 3 sites noted above and being the only such reserves in the County are of strategic importance in County and Regional terms.

5.10 The proposed restoration schemes provide for a high standard of restoration which promotes a combination of biodiversity.

5.11 The full technical studies demonstrated that this proposed consolidation project lying totally within the existing Wredon / Wardlow footprint can continue to operate with minimal if any disturbance to nearby property.

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PART 6

PART 6

APPLICATION FORMS

NOTICES AND CERTIFICATES

Official stamp

(version -22 February 2007)

APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION TO CARRY OUT MINERAL WORKING AND ASSOCIATED DEVELOPMENT

15 completed copies of this form, plans and supporting information, together with the correct fee and certificates should be sent to:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES c/o Planning Development Control Team, Development and Waste Management Unit, Development Services, Staffordshire County Council, Riverway, Stafford. ST16 3TJ

[PLEASE REFER TO THE INCORPORATED NOTES AND THE ACCOMPANYING GUIDANCE NOTES]

Please complete in block letters NAME AND ADDRESS OF AGENT 1. NAME AND ADDRESS OF APPLICANT (to whom correspondence will be sent)

Tarmac Limited ...... Contact Name: John B Hill ......

Tunstead House ...... SLR Consulting ......

Buxton ...... 8 Parker Court, Staffordshire Technology Park, Beaconside, ..

Derbyshire...... Post code: SK17 8TG ...... Stafford, Staffordshire ...... Post code: ST18 OWP......

Tel. No: 01298 768202...... Tel. No: 01785 253331......

Mobile: 07879 624515 ...... Mobile: ......

Fax...... Fax. 01785 246660 ......

Email: [email protected]...... Email: [email protected]......

2. PARTICULARS OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

(a) Location or address of proposed development

Wredon / Wardlow Complex, Cauldon Lowe, Staffordshire......

......

......

(b) Brief description of proposed development

Proposed consolidation of permitted extraction and restoration conditions and schemes. Please refer to accompanying

Environmental and Written Statements ......

......

Please describe the proposed development in sufficient detail as the description will be used in public notices, neighbour letters, correspondence with consultees and the Decision Notice. For example the description should include reference to the type of mineral and how it would be excavated and processed. We will contact you before we publicise the application if we consider there is a need to modify the description to ensure it is easily understood by whom it may concern.

Please refer to accompanying Written Supporting Statement

1 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

(c) Applicant's interest in the site, the minerals and the adjoining land

Owner Lessee Prospective purchaser whole site 52 ha The site part of the site whole site 52 ha The minerals part of the site Adjoining land 74 ha

Please  (tick) the appropriate box and explain in the supporting statement your / the applicant’s interest in the land, the minerals and any adjoining land e.g. owner, lessee or prospective purchaser. See the accompanying notes for guidance about the provision of a plan(s) to show the application boundary (‘the site’) edged red and any adjoining land owned or controlled by the applicant edged blue. See Drg. No. W69/61 at WS Part 8.

3. THE SITE

(a) Site area (c) Grid Ref 52 ...... hectares SK 085500 …………..……….E 472500 …...……..N ...... square metres (To identify the centre of the site – please provide a 12 figure (b) Proposed new floor space (if applicable) grid reference e.g. 350000E 300000N)

...... N/A...... square metres

Please provide accurate information as it will be used to confirm that the correct fee has been paid and to locate the site.

4. TYPE OF APPLICATION [Delete as appropriate]

A. Full application for mineral extraction, mineral processing and mineral waste disposal and involving associated/ancillary buildings, plant or other works? ...... YES / NO

B. Full application for buildings, plant or other works associated/ancillary to mineral working? ...... YES / NO

C. Application for temporary approval for buildings, plant or other works associated/ancillary to mineral working? ...... YES / NO

D. Application to extend an existing mineral site? ...... YES / NO

E. Application for renewal of an existing permission?...... YES / NO

F. Application to vary condition?...... YES / NO

G. Retrospective application to retain a development or use that has already commenced?...... YES / NO

Please choose one option that best reflects the type of application and provide more details about the proposed development in the supporting statement. Proposal to consolidate extant planning permissions. ID/SM/10 – 6079 -7985 - SM 552/87 - SM 13783 - ES/13809/02 – ID 586

With regard to D, E and F above, please provide the existing planning permission ref. no. here See Above ......

With regard to D, E, F and G above, please provide specific details in the supporting statement: to explain why temporary permission is sought and for how long or until what date; the proposed conditions to be varied and the proposed alternative wording (where appropriate); and, to confirm when the development actually commenced.

If there is an/are existing planning permission(s) affecting the site that could be replaced or updated if this proposal was granted planning permission, would you and anyone else with an interest in the land be willing to sign a planning obligation to revoke the existing permission(s) in return for a consolidating permission? ...... YES / NO

Please provide details of the extant planning permission(s) and the heads of terms of a planning obligation.

IDO/SM/10 ) 6079 ) 7985 ) ES 13809/02 ) See WS Part 7 SM 13783 ) SM 552/87 ) ID 586 ) 2 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

5. ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

(a) Is an Environmental Statement attached with this application?...... YES / NO

If YES please provide contact details about who to write to in order to obtain a copy of the Environmental Statement (ES) and the charge, including post and packing. Where appropriate also include a web site address where the ES can be viewed. Also specify an address in the locality where the ES can be inspected.

Contact name, telephone number/email and postal address. G Fyles, Tarmac Limited, Tunstead House, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 8TG

......

Charge (including post and packing)......

The address in the locality where the ES can be inspected Cauldon Lowe Quarry, Waterhouses, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire ST10 3EW

......

......

(b) Did a Screening and/or Scoping Opinion / Direction precede the Environmental Statement? ...... YES / NO

If YES please state reference number and date here SCO.20/113M

6. DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT

(a) Does a Design and Access Statement accompany the application? ...... YES / NO

Please note that it is a statutory requirement to submit a Design and Access Statement with certain types of minerals planning application. See the accompanying guidance notes for more details.

7. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION [Please provide on the form or in a supporting statement / Design and Access Statement/ Environmental Statement]

PRE-APPLICATION DISCUSSIONS [Delete as appropriate]

(a) Did you discuss your proposals with anyone else before making this application?

(i) Staffordshire County Council’s Planning Development Control Team ...... YES / NO

(ii) Staffordshire County Council’s Environment & Countryside Unit...... YES / NO

(iii) Staffordshire County Council’s Highways Development Control Team...... YES / NO

(iv) The Highways Agency (where a Trunk Road/ Motorway may be affected) ...... YES / NO

(v) The relevant District/Borough Council Planning section ...... YES / NO

(vi) The relevant District/Borough Council Environmental Health section...... YES / NO

(vii) The relevant Parish/Town Council...... YES / NO

(viii) The Environment Agency ...... YES / NO

(ix) Natural England...... YES / NO

(x) Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Staffordshire Eco Records Centre ...... YES / NO

(xi) Utility companies...... YES / NO

(xii) CABE c/o Urban Vision North Staffordshire / Midland Architecture - the Design Environment (MADE).....YES / NO

(xiii) The Local Community ...... YES / NO

(xiv) Local Amenity Groups ...... YES / NO

(xv) Other(s) please specify briefly here......

......

3 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

......

If YES please specify in the supporting statement who was consulted and explain how the proposals take account of the comments that were made / advice that was given.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why no pre-application discussions took place.

Please note that the above list is not a complete list of consultees. There is a longer list on our web site and pre-application discussions with us may identify other consultees. See the accompanying guidance notes for more details.

TYPE OF SITE

(b) What type of mineral is already being worked on site?

Chalk Limestone √ Vein minerals China and Ball Clay Oil/Gas-Exploration Other minerals Clay/Shale Oil/Gas-Appraisal Recycling plants for secondary aggregates Coal (deep-mined) Oil/Gas-Development Coal-bed methane production Coal (open-cast) Sand and Gravel Coal-bed methane exploration/appraisal Gypsum/Anhydrite Sand (excluding silica sand) Silica sand Igneous Rock Sandstone Other –Kevin Quarry is presently mothballed Ironstone Slate (Limestone)

Please  (tick) one option which best describes the principal activity proposed to take place / you are seeking retrospective planning permission. The annual importation of limestone of up to 75,000 tonnes from the nearby Cauldon Low Quarry for use in the existing asphalt plants at Kevin Quarry.

NATURE OF APPLICATION

(c) What is the nature of the application?

New mineral-working, exploration or appraisal On site manufacturing or ancillary operations/uses Extension to the area of an existing site Non-compliance with (variation to) existing condition(s) √ Extension to the life of an existing site Other – Consolidation of extant permissions Deepening of working or other changes to an existing site

Please  (tick) one or two of the options which best describe the nature of the application. The information required by (b) and (c) above will assist us with statistical returns we are required to make to the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) (form CPS1/2).

EXISTING/PREVIOUS USE OF THE LAND

(d) Is the site currently in use? ...... YES / NO

Please provide a brief description: With the exception of the removal of small volumes for specific contracts the Wredon / Wardlow Complex is currently silent. See WS Parts 1 – 6 inclusive......

If YES please explain more fully in the supporting statement what is the current use of the land.

If NO please confirm in the supporting statement if the land is currently vacant and whether or not there has been a previous use and if so, describe the previous use and what date that use ceased.

MINERAL TYPE(S), OUTPUT, PROCESSING AND END USE

(e) What type of mineral, how much would be extracted, over what period and how would it be processed and used? Refer to Written Statement Part 3 Development Details.

Mineral Output Tonnes Cubic metres

Period (years) Total

Excavation area (hectares) Maximum depth of surface working (metres) See Written Statement – Part 3 Duration of mineral extraction (years) Duration of final restoration (years) Duration of aftercare (years)

Please provide evidence in the supporting statement to demonstrate how the mineral resource has been evaluated to 4 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

determine the quality and quantity of mineral, including the results of that appraisal. Please explain in more detail in the supporting statement the method of working, including details of any phasing or progressive working and restoration.

(f) Would the mineral be processed on site? ...... YES / NO

If YES please provide a brief description: ......

Refer to Written Supporting Statement – Parts 2 and 3 ......

If YES please explain more fully in the supporting statement how the mineral would be processed on site. If products are to be manufactured on site, what additional minerals / materials would need to be imported to the site, if any, and what is the extent of the market(s) for the product(s)? What mineral waste would arise, how much and how it would be dealt with? What measures would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts e.g. the design and location of the processing plant? Also confirm whether or not the operations would be controlled by a waste management licence/permit/authorisation/other.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement where the mineral would be processed off site / why this information is not necessary in this case.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND UTILITY INFORMATION [Delete as appropriate]

(g) Are any of the following affected by the proposed development?

(i) Natural or cultural assets (e.g. Biological Alert Sites, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, trees/hedgerows, Conservation Areas, Archaeological features; visual amenity; landscape) ES Part6 YES / NO

(ii) Protected wildlife or their habitats ES Part 6 YES / NO

(iii) Public Rights of Way or Public Open Space ES Part 5 YES / NO

(iv) Public Utilities (including overhead/underground services and pipelines) (explain how foul sewage would be disposed of, and the nature, volume and proposed means of disposal of any trade effluents or trade refuse) ...... YES / NO

(v) Agricultural land (explain what agricultural grade of land would be affected) or soil resources...... YES / NO

(vi) Watercourse(s) / water bodies (explain how surface water would be disposed of) ES Part 10 YES / NO

If YES to any of the above please identify on a plan(s) and specify in more detail in the supporting statement what measures have been/would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts.

If NO to any of the above please explain in the supporting statement what steps have been taken to demonstrate why this information is not necessary in this case.

(h) What specific steps would be taken to maintain high environmental standards including minimising the materially harmful effects of noise, dust, blasting, surface water and ground water pollution, and land stability?

(i) Does the supporting statement include a noise report incorporating a survey of background noise levels, predicted noise levels and measures to manage the impact of noise? ES Part 7 YES / NO

(ii) Does the supporting statement include a dust and/or air quality management scheme? ES Part 8 YES / NO

(iii) Does the supporting statement include details of the measures to control the effects of blasting? ES Part 9 YES / NO

(iv) Does the supporting statement include measures to control the impact on surface and ground water, or the impact due to the risk of flooding? ES Part 10 YES / NO

(v) Does the supporting statement include a ground stability report? ...... YES / NO

If YES to any of the above please identify on a plan(s) and specify in more detail in the supporting statement what measures have been/would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts.

If NO to any of the above please explain in the supporting statement what steps have been taken to demonstrate why this information is not necessary in this case.

5 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

OPERATING HOURS

(i) Please specify the proposed days and hours of operation

PRESENTLY PERMITTED – Mineral Extraction Coated Roadstone Plant – 7 day working week 0400 to 1800 hours

Start Finish Monday to 0700 Hrs 1800 Hrs Friday Saturday 0700 Hrs 1300 Hrs

Sundays None

Bank Holidays None

Please explain in more detail in the supporting information what activities if any would / would not take place at certain times, and/or the frequency of certain activities per day/week/month/year.

DESIGN OF ANY ANCILLARY BUILDINGS, WORKS, LIGHTING AND ASSOCIATED LANDSCAPING

(j) Does the proposed development involve buildings, works, lighting and/or landscaping? ES Part 5 .....YES / NO

If YES please identify on a plan(s), elevations/cross-sections, and explain in the supporting statement what consideration has been given to the design of any building/works/lighting/landscaping to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts – including details of the type and colour of materials to be used; the position relative to what is there including nearby buildings, road, railways and any openings; and, planting species and maintenance. On sloping sites the accompanying plans/drawings should include spot levels, contours or cross-sections.

If NO to any of the above please explain in the supporting statement what steps have been taken to demonstrate why this information is not necessary in this case.

PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

(k) Would any plant and equipment be used on site? As presently permitted. See WS Part 3 ...... YES / NO

If YES please explain in the supporting statement what plant and equipment would be used on site, for what purpose and how frequently and for what duration it would be used per day/week/month/year. This information should also inform your noise and dust assessments.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why this information is not necessary.

EMPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT

(l) Would the proposed development result in the creation of new jobs or secure existing jobs?...... YES / NO The grant of permission will secure future long term employment

(m) Would the proposed development require a significant level of investment in the local area?...... YES / NO

It is relevant to consider the economic, social and environmental implications of development proposals.

If YES to any of the above, please specify how many jobs would be created or existing jobs secured, and/or explain the level of investment that would be made if planning permission was granted.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why this information is not necessary or available in this case.

ACCESS

(n) Is it proposed to use an existing means of access to the application site? ES Part 11 ...... YES / NO

(o) Are new access arrangements to be constructed or alterations to existing access proposed? ...... YES / NO

Please include visibility splays within the red line used to identify the limits of the site on the application plan(s).

(p) Would steps be taken to minimise the risk of mud and other deleterious materials being deposited on the public highway? As existing ES Part 11 ...... YES / NO

If YES please describe in the supporting statement what steps would be taken. – As existing.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why this information is not necessary or available in this case.

6 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

TRAFFIC

(q) What is the estimated total number of vehicles likely to enter or leave the site daily? – i.e. movements in and out?

Vehicle load/type Size (GVW) Average Maximum

(i) Mineral < 3.5 tonnes

> 3.5 tonnes 166 182

(ii) Mineral waste (if any) < 3.5 tonnes

> 3.5 tonnes

(iii) Imported ancillary mineral(s) < 3.5 tonnes

> 3.5 tonnes

(ii) Mineral product (if any) < 3.5 tonnes

> 3.5 tonnes

(ii) Employees

(iii) Visitors

(r) What is the estimated capacity of loaded vehicles?

Average Maximum

tonnes 21 22

(s) Is the application accompanied by a formal Transport Assessment? As existing ES Part 11...... YES / NO

Staffordshire County Council has published a Code of Practice to assist with the assessment of the impact of heavy commercial vehicles and published guidance to assist with the preparation of Transport Assessments – see accompanying guidance notes for more details.

If NO please specify in more detail in the supporting statement what measures have been/would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts of the traffic generated by the proposed development.

PARKING

(t) Would car and lorry parking spaces be provided? As existing ...... YES / NO

Existing Total New Total (vehicle spaces) (vehicle spaces) Staff As existing

Visitors As existing

< 3.5 tonnes (GVW) As existing

> 3.5 tonnes (GVW) As existing

If YES please complete the table above and identify the parking arrangements on a plan(s).

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why this information is not necessary in this case.

ARRANGEMENTS FOR VEHICLE SERVICING, LOADING/UNLOADING AND THE STOCKPILING OF MINERALS

(u) Is there any provision for vehicle loading/unloading of minerals on site? ...... YES / NO

If YES please identify on a plan(s) and specify in more detail in the supporting statement what measures have been/would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts of vehicle servicing, loading/unloading and stockpiling of minerals.

If NO please explain the supporting statement what steps have been taken to demonstrate why this information is not necessary in this case.

7 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

STORAGE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

(v) Would the proposed development involve the use or storage of any hazardous materials? ...... YES / NO

If YES please identify on a plan(s) and specify in more detail in the supporting statement what hazardous materials would be stored, how much would be stored and what measures have been/would be taken to reduce or mitigate any materially harmful impacts of the handling and storage. Also please confirm whether or not the operations would be controlled by a waste management licence/permit/authorisation/other.

PLANNING POLICY

(w) Does the proposed development accord with the development plan? WS Parts 4 and 5 ...... YES / NO

(x) Are there any other material considerations that should be taken into account? ...... YES / NO

If YES please explain in the supporting statement how the proposed development accords with the ‘development plan’ or what other material considerations should be taken into account in reaching a decision. The ‘development plan’ comprises the Minerals Local Plan together with various other development plan documents. See accompanying guidance notes for more details.

If NO please explain in the supporting statement why planning permission should be granted or why this information is not necessary in this case.

RESTORATION AND AFTERCARE

(y) How would the site be restored and used following the cessation of mineral working?

Please provide a brief description......

Refer to Environmental Statement – Part 5 and Appendices 1 and 9

Written Supporting Statement – Parts 3, 5 and 8

......

......

......

......

......

......

Please explain more fully in the supporting statement what steps would be taken to restore the site, remove buildings, plant, equipment, vehicles etc. and provide a detailed final restoration and aftercare scheme. Also explain the after-use of the land following restoration and how this would be sustained in the longer term – see the Code of Practice for Mineral Development for more guidance.

If NO please explain why this information is not necessary in this case.

8. CHECKLIST FOR MINERAL EXPLORATION, OIL/GAS DEVELOPMENT, UNDERGROUND MINING OR SURFACE DISPOSAL OF MINE OR QUARRY WASTE

Have you completed and attached the appropriate checklist? Not Applicable ...... YES / NO

Mineral Exploration Checklist A Oil and Gas Development Checklist B Underground mining Checklist C Surface disposal of mine or quarry waste Checklist D

If YES please  (tick) in the box alongside the appropriate checklist.

8 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

9. LIST OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS, PLANS AND DRAWINGS etc.

Reference number Title

Planning Application Area/ Company Boundary W69/61 Extant Planning Permissions K35/03a Location Plan W69/62 Development Phase 1 W69/64 Development Phase 2 W69/65 Development Phase 3 W69/66 Maximum Permitted Development W69/63 Location of Photo Views ST 10772/01 Visual Impact Assessment – Public Access Routes ST 10772/02 Noise Monitoring and Predication Locations ST 10772/03 Photo views 1-12 inclusive Interim Restoration ST 10772/06 Phased Restoration ST 10772/08 Final Concept Restoration ST 10772/07

......

......

......

......

[See the guidance notes for further advice about supporting information, plans and drawings]

10. COMMENCEMENT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

Do you anticipate that the development would commence within 3 years of the date that planning permission is granted? Interim Restoration Works...... YES / NO

Planning permission would normally be expected to commence within 3 years of the date that planning permission is granted.

If NO, please explain in the supporting statement how much time would be required and why this is necessary in this case.

In any event, please explain in the supporting statement when you anticipate that the development would commence and where appropriate explain the timing of the phasing of the development.

11. CERTIFICATES OF OWNERSHIP AND AGRICULTURAL HOLDINGS CERTIFICATE

Certificate A...... YES / NO

Certificate B...... YES / NO

Certificate C...... YES / NO

Certificate D...... YES / NO

Agricultural Holdings Certificate...... YES / NO

[See the guidance notes for further advice about completing the appropriate certificates]

9 Staffordshire County Council – application for planning permission to carry out mineral working or associated development (22 February 2007)

12. DECLARATION AND SIGNATURE(S)

 It is in your own interests that work is not commenced until planning permission is obtained.

 Any permission granted does not convey any consent which might be required under any other legislation, including legislation relating to building regulations, pollution control, rights of way, listed buildings, advertisements, and mine and quarry safety. For example, you should ascertain whether the activity which you intend to carry out requires a licence/consent/permit from the Environment Agency. If you are in doubt please contact the Environment Agency (tel. 08708 506 506). The granting of planning permission does not absolve you from obtaining the necessary approvals, for example from the Environment Agency or Severn Trent Water plc or their agent, where applicable. Work should not be started until the necessary approvals have been obtained.

 I have read and understood the whole contents of this form and the accompanying guidance notes.

 I enclose fifteen copies of all relevant forms, plans and supporting documents and/or electronic version (see accompanying guidance notes)

 I enclose a completed Certificate under Article 7 and a completed Agricultural Holdings Certificate

Signed: G Fyles...... Date: 28 October 2009 ......

On behalf of Tarmac Limited ......

10

PART 7

APPENDICES

Appendix 1

Planning Permission

IDO/SM/10

7 June 1946

Appendix 2

Planning Permission

6079

23 August 1965

Appendix 3

Planning Permission

7985

9 October 1969

Appendix 4

Planning Permission

ES 1389 and SM 13783

16 April 1986

Appendix 5

Planning Permission

SM 552/87

3 May 1988

Appendix 6

Planning Permission

ID 586

10 May 1993

Appendix 7

Staffordshire County Council email

Dated 8 June 2007

PART 8