Hampshire County Council and New Forest NPA inviting residents to have say over minerals and waste plan which could see new quarries at Ashley Manor Farm and Midgham Farm
PEOPLE are being urged to have a say over controversial plans which would lead to new mines and quarries in the New Forest.
As reported in the A&T, Hampshire County Council’s proposed minerals and waste plan could see Ashley Manor Farm, near New Milton, and Midgham Farm, near Fordingbridge, converted into extraction sites.
Both proposed developments have prompted a backlash from locals who say it would have a negative impact on their health and wellbeing.
Other local sites earmarked for potential quarrying works include Purple Haze, south of Ringwood Forest, plus an aggregate rail depot at Totton Sidings.
Early proposals to develop Yeatton Farm in Hordle and Hamer Warren Quarry, between Ringwood and Fordingbridge, have been withdrawn.
The county council has now launched an eight-week consultation inviting residents to have a say on the plans. Following the consultation, a proposed submission plan will go to the government’s Planning Inspectorate for formal adoption.
A county council spokesperson said: “In having a minerals and waste plan… authorities are fulfilling a collective duty to ensure the whole area can continue to provide a steady and adequate supply of minerals for building homes, schools, hospitals and roads, as well as provide sufficient waste resources and facilities.
“The proposed submission plan has been updated to ensure that it is in line with current legislation and has been informed by the feedback from the draft plan consultation in 2023 where views were sought on proposed updates to policies.”
They added: “Having an up-to-date plan in place is the best way to ensure that minerals and waste operations fully consider the character and special qualities of Hampshire and will not adversely impact communities or the local environment.”
The online consultation is open until 5th March. To have a say, visit: https://bit.ly/3O4kPJw
