Mineral extraction in Staffordshire.

Independent report boost for county mineral target campaign        

Staffordshire County Council's campaign for a fairer deal for Staffordshire on mineral extraction has received a boost by an independent consultant's report backing its argument.

The Government has produced new targets for the provision of sand and gravel and crushed rock in the West Midlands and the Regional Assembly now have to decide how to set targets for each mineral planning authority area within the region. Previously, targets were set using historical information based on sales trends which resulted in Staffordshire contributing two thirds of the regional total for sand and gravel provision.

The county council wants an alternative method to be used for the setting of targets which would see the county and its residents benefit from a fairer distribution. In an independent report commissioned by the West Midlands Regional Assembly alternative methods for setting the targets have been put forward which would result in a better deal.

Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure Robert Marshall said:

"We have made clear our commitment to fight for a fairer deal for Staffordshire communities. This new, independent report strongly supports our view and we will do everything we can to support its recommendations regarding an alternative approach to target setting.

"We are in the progress of pulling together a robust response to the West Midlands Regional Assembly on the targets set and will use this independent evidence to support our case.

"One thing is clear. We think it is unreasonable and unfair that Staffordshire bears such a big brunt of the minerals extraction.

"While we recognise that Staffordshire has good minerals reserves and it is a thriving industry, we have to get the balance right. Local people need to be protected from the adverse impact of sand and gravel extraction."

Page Last Modified: 06/01/2010 09:50:07

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