Quarry expansion approved despite objections

Plans for a quarry expansion have been approved despite community opposition.

Suffolk County Council discussed Aggmax Transport's proposal for the northern expansion of Lawn Farm Quarry in Wetherden, near Stowmarket.

The plans had attracted strong opposition while there was a public petition receiving 2,016 signatures.

Councillors approved the plans subject to conditions including details over fencing to be provided before building could take place and a fence to be built before any extractions to ensure public safety.

The proposals saw 64 residents submit a total of 274 comments while there were formal objections received from Elmswell, Wetherden, Haughley and Woolpit parish councils.

A range of issues were raised during the application process, including air quality, noise, traffic, environment, public safety, and the historical management of the site, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported.

David Marsh, the applicant's agent, committed to having a more active response to complaints and said liaison meetings would take place to give residents a voice.

Some concerns were raised around new houses due to be built nearby, but planning officers concluded there would be no significant impacts.

The current quarry only has one and a half years of sand and gravel remaining, with an expected 750,000 saleable tonnes at the extension site.

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