Comment

Minerals Local Plan Issues and Options consultation

Representation ID: 30455

Received: 11/01/2018

Respondent: Nottingham City Council

Representation Summary:

The strategic issues identified appear to be appropriate. However it is considered that
adverse impacts on the natural and historic environment should also form the basis of a strategic issue.

Full text:

1 January 2018
Dear Sir/Madam
New Minerals Local Plan
I write in response to your consultation on the new Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan.
It is noted that it is the intention that the new Minerals Local Plan will cover a period of 19 year
from 2016 to 2036. This is the Issues & Options consultation stage and it does not consider
or identify and new sites or extensions to existing minerals extraction sites. .
The consultation asks a series of questions. I have responded below to those that are most
relevant to Nottingham City Council.
Q2 Do you agree with the draft vision? Are there other things we should include?
The vision appears to be appropriate for a Minerals Local Plan and in accordance with the
NPPF.
Q3 Are the above strategic issues appropriate? Are there others we should consider?
The strategic issues identified appear to be appropriate. However it is considered that
adverse impacts on the natural and historic environment should also form the basis of a
strategic issue.
Q4 Do you think the average 10 year sales figure is the most suitable methodology for
forecasting future aggregate demand in Nottinghamshire? If not please identify any
alternatives you feel are realistic and deliverable and the evidence to support this approach.
Using a rolling average of 10 years sales data accords with the NPPF although other relevant
local information, and an assessment of all supply options should also be taken into account
as part of the assessment.
Q5 Do you think the same methodology (most recent average 10 year sales) should be used
for each aggregate or is there merit in using different methodologies for different aggregates?
Planning Policy & Research
Planning Services
Loxley House
Nottingham City Council
Loxley House
Station St
Nottingham NG2 3NG
Tel: 0115 876 2561
www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk
Planning Policy Team
Place Department
Nottinghamshire County Council
County Hall
West Bridgford
Nottingham
NG2 7QP
My Ref: Notts Mineral Local Plan
Your
Ref:
N/A
Contact: Matthew Grant
Email: matthew.grant@nottinghamcity.gov.uk
Generally the same methodology should be used unless there is clear evidence to deviate
from this.
Q6 Do you think extensions to existing permitted quarries should be prioritised over new
greenfield quarries?
There should not be a presumption for either new quarries or extensions to existing where
increased capacity is required. Instead the most sustainable options should be pursued.
Q7 Should different approaches (new sites/extensions to existing permitted quarries) be
adopted for individual mineral types?
Each site/mineral type is individual and the impacts and benefits will need to be considered
on their own merits
Q8 How important is it to maintain a geographical spread of sand and gravel quarries across
the County (i.e. Idle Valley, near Newark and near Nottingham) to minimise the distance
minerals are transported to markets?
There is logic in having a geographical spread of sand and gravel quarries across the County
as this is likely to be more sustainable, reducing transport and help meet market demand.
Q9 Would it be more appropriate to prioritise specific areas above others?
Areas with good links to the strategic transport network should be prioritised as this is likely to
be more sustainable.
Q24 Are you aware of any issues relating to hydrocarbon extraction that should be
considered through the Minerals Local Plan review?
A criteria based policy approach to be in line with the NPPF is supported. The City Council
has an adopted position on renewable energy, which is attached for your information.
If you have any queries regarding the issues raised above please do not hesitate to contact
me.
Yours sincerely
Matthew Grant
Senior Planner (Policy)
Direct line : 0115 876 2561