TARMAC AND CEMEX UK

TARMAC AND CEMEX UK

PLANNING APPLICATION TO VARY

(NOT COMPLY WITH) CONDITIONS

17 (HOURS OF WORKING)

19 (THE QUANTITY OF EXPORTED SAND AND GRAVEL) AND 20

(HGV NUMBERS)

OF PLANNING PERMISSION L.15/04/805-808 MW

AT HINTS QUARRY

NEAR TAMWORTH, STAFFORDSHIRE

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

(INCLUDING A MINERALS DEVELOPMENT STATEMENT

AND A PLANNING STATEMENT)

PREPARED BY: DAVID L WALKER LIMITED

APRIL 2019

Tarmac and Cemex UK Environmental Statement Hints Quarry Planning Application for Variation of Conditions

Prepared by David L Walker Limited April 2019

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CONTENTS

PREFACE SECTION 1 Introduction

1.1 Context 1.2 The Applicant Company 1.3 Structure of Written Statement 1.4 The Planning Application 1.5 Environmental Statement Context 1.6 Methodologies 1.7 Difficulties Encountered 1.8 Stakeholder Engagement

SECTION 2 Existing Situation

2.1 Introduction 2.2 Layout and Operation 2.3 Hours of Operation 2.4 Landscape and Visual Setting 2.5 Noise 2.6 Transport

SECTION 3 The Application SECTION 4 Planning Statement 4.1 General 4.2 The Development Plan 4.3 National Planning Policy 4.4 Economic Benefit SECTION 5 Environmental Considerations 5.1 General 5.2 Landscape and Visual 5.3 Highways and Traffic 5.4 Noise 5.5 Other Matters including Interaction and Cumulative Effects SECTION 6 Non-Technical Summary

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LIST OF PLANS HQ/NWE/2 Application Site Context HQ/NWE/3 Site Plan/Quarry Survey

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1 Copy of Planning Consent L.15/04/805-808 MW dated 22 October 2018

APPENDIX 2 Noise report prepared by SLR Consulting dated April 2019



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PREFACE

(i) Tarmac and Cemex UK are the operators of Hints Quarry, located approximately 20km to the north east of central Birmingham, and 5km to the west of Tamworth within the county of Staffordshire and the district of Litchfield.

(ii) Operations at the site are long established, and the application site is some

94.7 hectares in extent, of which the recently granted north western extension is area is some 18.04 hectares. Historically, Hints and Hopwas Quarries were operated as separate, independent units.

(iii) Hints Quarry has been in operation since the 1960’s, initially based upon a

planning permission granted in 1963, with subsequent permissions in 1973 (ELR.12903) for an extension to the original quarry and for the erection of a new processing plant. This consent has been subject to variation and extension/consolidation over time. The operations are currently regulated via a planning permission granted in October 2018 (reference L.15/04/805-808 MW) for Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth.

(iv) The plant site is situated in the southern part of the site, and contains a range

of plant and equipment associated with the processing of the sand and gravel; ancillary management operations such as weighbridge and site offices. Access into the site is derived via an existing access direct off the C36 Watling Street.

(v) Historically the site has operated at up to 700,000 tonnes per annum, but in

more recent years has been limited to around 500,000 tonnes per annum,, a function of market conditions and increased levels of downtime. This is reflected in the current annual limits expressed in Condition 19 of the consent.

(vi) Tarmac have secured a proportion of the supply of ready mixed concrete

(RMX) to the HS2 project, thereby requiring increased aggregate supplies to the RMX plants. Due to the aggregate quality, Hints will be a key source of aggregates to the project. Based on the anticipated requirement for aggregates demand to RMX plants, it is proposed to increase output from the site to 1,000,000 tonnes per annum.

(vii) In order to be able to meet this demand, it is proposed to vary Conditions 17

and 19 of Consent L.15/04/805-808 MW to enable an increase in annual activity and to change the hours of working for the extraction operations from the currently approved 7:00 am – 6:00 pm to 6:00 am - 10:00 pm. It is also proposed to change Saturdays hours to 06:00 am – 04:00 pm. These hours would largely be consistent with the already consented operations in the plant site.

(viii) There are no proposals to vary the current limits on HGV activity to and from

the site as regulated through condition 20 of the same consent, however it is



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proposed to delete part b) of that condition to remove the restriction on annual HGV activity.

(ix) This Environmental Statement is provided in support of this application to vary

and includes content consistent with the Local Validation List.



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SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Context 1.1.1 Tarmac and Cemex UK (“the applicant”) are the operator of Hints Quarry (“the

site”), a key minerals site in the south of the County making a vital contribution to meeting the needs for construction materials in the locality and wider area and providing a sustainable solution for the management of inert materials arisings.

1.1.2 The site comprises an existing operational sand and gravel quarry, including

ancillary facilities, the latter mainly located in the plant site area in the south of the site.

1.1.3 Historically the site has operated at up to 700,000 tonnes per annum, but in

more recent years has been limited to around 500,000 tonnes per annum, a function of market conditions and increased levels of downtime for maintenance.

1.1.4 Tarmac have secured a proportion of the supply of ready mixed concrete


1.1.5 The operations are currently regulated via a planning permission granted in

October 2018 (reference L.15/04/805-808 MW) for Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth.

1.1.6 The consent includes 53 planning conditions cover a wide range of

environmental and operational criteria. This includes the following:

Condition 17 - hours of working condition Condition 19 - limit on annual sand and gravel exports to 700,000

tpa; and Condition 20 - limits on HGV activity.

1.1.7 It is proposed to vary these conditions to enable the site to meet projected

demand for construction materials and the management of inert materials arisings, thereby assisting Staffordshire County Council in its role as a Minerals Planning Authority (MPA) to fulfil its obligations in this regard, and meeting supply requirements of other national strategic schemes.

1.2 The Applicant Company



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1.2.1 The application is submitted jointly by Tarmac who operate Hints Quarry, , and CEMEX UK Ltd, who were the operators of Hopwas Quarry.

1.3 Structure of the Written Statement 1.3.1 This Environmental Statement includes the Minerals Development Statement

format (“MDS”) as per Staffordshire County Council’s planning application validation criteria (dated July 2013).

1.3.2 The relevant components of the validation criteria and their relationship with

this MDS is stated below:-

a) the applicant’s business – refer to Section 1.2 above; b) the background to the development proposals – refer to Section 1.1

above; c) the alternatives that were considered (unless provided as part of an

Environmental Statement) – see Section 5.5 below; d) the significance of the timing of the planning application (if any) –

directly linked into materials supply to the HS2 project and therefore of importance at a nationally strategic level;

e) the intended commencement date and phasing of the development if

applicable – upon grant of consent for the duration of the development. No change in phasing is required;

f) the opportunity to review conditions and / or consolidate existing

permissions (if applicable) - n/a, as the existing consent is modern and up to date;

g) the contribution that the development would make to the business – the

proposed variation of condition will allow the company to meet projected market demands both for minerals supply. This would support the Company’s strategic aspirations in meeting materials demands for infrastructure projects such as HS2;

h) the contribution that the development would make to the local economy

e.g. new jobs, security for existing jobs, business rates, and investment and spending in the local economy (unless provided separately – see ‘E’ for Economic Statement) – refer to section 4.4 below;

i) the applicant’s interest in the land and minerals, including any adjoining

or nearby land and minerals – Tarmac are the landowner in the plant site area, the main subject of this application, but are lessees of the surface across other areas of the site. Cemex own the minerals;

j) the pre-application discussions and changes to the proposals that

resulted from those discussions (unless provided separately - see ‘S’ for Statement of Community Involvement) – no formal discussions undertaken;



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k) the design / operational considerations to achieve and maintain high

environmental standards (e.g. environmental management systems operated by the applicant) – refer to sections 3 and 5 below;

l) an explanation of the operating hours if they will vary by day / week /

month / season – refer to Section 3 below; m) an explanation of the traffic movements if they will vary by day / week /

month / season (unless provided separately – see ‘T’ for Transport, Access, Parking and Travel Plan Considerations) – refer to Section 5.3 below;

n) the effects of climate change (unless provided separately see ‘P’ for

Planning Statement) – n/a; o) the results of mineral exploration to prove the extent and quality of the

mineral resource and information about quality and quantity of the remaining mineral reserve where applicable – n/a;

p) the proportion of mineral to be extracted that will be treated as mine

waste – n/a; q) the market for the mineral(s) in terms of use and geographic extent – as

consented but with a direct component of minerals supply to the HS2 project.

r) the duration and phasing of mineral extraction, backfill and/ or final

restoration operations – as consented; s) the nature and significance of any ancillary operations e.g. processing

and blending of the mineral to add value and marketability – no change in approved operational practices in this regard;

t) the safeguards to guarantee that the land is restored at the earliest

opportunity to achieve high environmental standards e.g. to address the need for a restoration guarantee bond – land to be restored and maintained in accordance with schemes and conditions under planning consent L.15/04/805-808 MW;

u) the intended after-use of the land and how that use would be sustained

beyond the statutory 5 year aftercare period – land to be restored and marinated in accordance with schemes and conditions under planning consent L.15/04/805-808 MW;

v) planning obligations that the applicant is willing to enter into either as

unilateral undertakings or as part of a Section 106 Legal Agreement e.g. to agree to: consolidate the permissions; arrange liaison committee meetings; comply with traffic routes; extend the aftercare period; secure a restoration guarantee bond; or transfer the land at the end of a specified period. – the existing consent is subject to a S106 Agreement and the expectation is that the new decision notice



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would require a Deed of Variation. No change to the content of the existing obligation is sought.

1.3.3 A review of Planning Policy (adopted and emerging) is provided at Section 4

along with analysis of the potential environmental impacts of the proposed variation of condition (Section 5). As the proposals directly relate to minerals development a Design and Access Statement is not required.

1.3.4 This statement also constitutes an Environmental Statement and relevant

context in this regard is provided in Sections 1.5-1.7 inclusive below. 1.4 The Planning Application 1.4.1 The operations are currently regulated via a planning permission granted in

October 2018 (reference L.15/04/805-808 MW) for Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth (“the consent”).

1.4.2 The consent includes 53 planning conditions cover a wide range of

environmental and operational criteria. This includes the following:

Condition 17 - hours of working condition Condition 19 - limit on annual sand and gravel exports to 700,000

tpa; and Condition 20 - limits on HGV activity.

1.4.3 It is proposed to vary these conditions to enable the site to meet projected

demand for construction materials, for both the general market and the nationally significant HS2, thereby assisting Staffordshire County Council in its role as a Minerals Planning Authority (MPA) to fulfil its obligations in this regard.

1.4.4 The application relates to all elements of the approved operations and seeks

in-particular to ensure that the hours of operation are common across the site to maximise efficiency at the site. Further details in this regard are presented at Section 3 of this Statement.

1.4.5 The proposals will not:

increase the extent of the current site; seek to change the approved schemes of working and restoration; bring the any elements of the site any closer to residential development

and/or any other sensitive forms of development; change the approved points of access; change the noise limits articulated under current planning conditions; and change any of the processes undertaken on the wider site.



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1.4.6 The proposals will, however, enable the applicant to continue to meet market demand (both existing and proposed) from this sustainable and well-established location, consistent with national and local policy and mineral supply objectives.

1.4.7 The proposals will not create a new process. Potential impacts on residential

and commercial properties would continue to be minimised through appropriate site design and management as worded through appropriate planning conditions.

1.5 Environmental Statement Context 1.5.1 This Environmental Statement, as required by the Town & Country Planning

(Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 (EIA Regulations), accompanies the planning application submitted by the applicant to vary Conditions 17 and 19 of Planning Consent L.15/04/805-808 MW.

1.5.2 Environmental Impact Assessment was first introduced into English law by regulations in 1988, though the original procedure was known as Environmental Assessment. The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999 (EIA Regulations), came into force in March 1999. The new regulations were one of the ways in which the European Commission Directive 98/11 (which amended Directive 85/337) was transposed into English law.

1.5.3 Over the course of time the regulations have been subject to review, the most

recent of which the EIA Regulations, take into account present day case law. The latest guidance on the preparation of Environmental Statements is articulated in the relevant central government Planning Practice Guidance.

1.5.4 Copies of this Environmental Statement are available for inspection at the

offices of the Staffordshire County Council and at the site offices at the Quarry. Further copies may be purchased at a cost of £30.00 (including postage and packaging) from:

David L Walker Limited Albion House 89 Station Road Eckington Sheffield S21 4FW 1.5.5 The Environmental Statement includes a Non-Technical Summary, the

purpose of which is to ensure that the findings of the studies undertaken can more readily be disseminated to the general public and that the conclusions are easily understood by non-experts as well as decision makers. It is therefore essential that the Non-Technical Summary reflects in an accurate and balanced way the key information contained in the Environmental Statement, describing all conclusions, and the facts and judgements on which they are based.



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1.5.6 The aims of the ES are to define the current situation at the application site and adjoining environs, across the appropriate technical disciplines, describe the scope of the application and assess the potential scope for impact and the need, where required, for mitigation measures.

1.5.7 Accordingly, and consistent with Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations (as

amended), the main objectives of this ES are:

(a) to identify and describe the existing environmental status (or baseline scenario) of the application site;

(b) to describe the proposed changes sought having full consideration of the

physical characteristics of the development, i.e. size, scale and duration of various elements of the scheme;

(c) to identify any significant environmental effects (including cumulative and

interaction effects) of the proposed changes sought and, in the case of any effect which may be perceived to be significantly adverse, the measures which are proposed in order to avoid, prevent, reduce or if possible offset any identified environmental effects;

(d) the ES additionally considers "alternatives", although the proposed

variation sought cannot be considered in a similar light to built development in this case, only alternatives to the annual output and hours of working are considered; and

(e) finally, a Non Technical Summary is provided.

Screening

1.5.8 The permission area at the site extends to approximately 94.7 hectares. The

EIA Regulations set out in Schedule 1 descriptions of development for which an Environmental Impact Assessment is mandatory. Paragraph 19 of Schedule 1 of the EIA Regulations identifies quarries and opencast mining where the surface of the site exceeds 25 hectares, as being EIA development for which an Environmental Impact Assessment is mandatory. Scoping

1.5.9 A scoping opinion has not been sought in this instance as the changes are relatively minor in scope. Nevertheless this ES includes appropriate and proportionate assessments in respect of Transport, Noise, and Landscape and Visual being the only areas where impacts could be different from those already assessed and proven acceptable under the consent. Furthermore suitable content is provided for flood risk matters consistent with the local validation criteria.

1.6 Assessment Methodology 1.6.1 In accordance with the aforementioned EIA Regulations (and specifically

Schedule 4 of the same), this subsection details the methodologies to be employed in assessing the potential impact of the proposals. Consideration is



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also made of the appropriate components of the NPPF and attendant Planning Practice Guidance, all with a view to indicating the potential significance of the effects in a proportionate and clearly demonstrable format. Transport

1.6.2 The assessment of proposals has been considered against the DFT guidance on Transport Assessment, with appropriate consideration of highways safety and capacity. The assessment is informed by the requirements of IEMA “Guidelines on the Environmental Assessment of Road Traffic”. A high level assessment (refer section 5.3 below) provided as the principal of activity at this location is already well established. Noise

1.6.3 Predicted noise levels throughout the proposed operations have been

considered for noise sensitive properties using the procedures contained in the British Standard BS 5228 "Noise Control of Construction and Open Sites" as recommended in the NPPF and relevant Planning Practice Guidance.

1.6.4 Sites employ items of earthmoving machinery each generating a different

level of noise. Each single item of plant has a power output expressed in kW rating which can be related to a sound power level (SWL) and is expressed in dB(A).

1.6.5 However as the proposals are in merely for an increase in annual output with

no changes in site layout, bund location and morphology, a detailed empirical assessment is not considered necessary at this time. Nevertheless an appropriate assessment is provided with an appropriate methodology at Section 4.2 of Appendix 2 of this document. The assessment includes appropriate consideration of operational noise and that potentially associated with the haulage of minerals from the site.

Landscape and Visual

1.6.6 An assessment was undertaken in accordance with National Planning Policy, and other forms of guidance provided by IEEM. These guidance papers were used to set parameters for the estimation of probability of landscape and or visual impact, the effective magnitude, and the impact magnitude. As no changes in site layout are envisaged and there are no changes in process are envisaged, a detailed assessment is not considered necessary at this time. Cumulative and Interaction Effects

1.6.7 Cumulative effects have been considered in accordance with Section 113 of the IEMA Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment published in 2004. This remains best practice for this area of EIA as supplemented by relevant extracts of Planning Practice Guidance and topic-specific guidance issued by professional bodies. Thus Section 5.5 below considers the definition of cumulative effects, with the assessment of significance of the same.



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1.7 Difficulties Encountered 1.7.1 Consistent with Paragraph 6 of Schedule 4 of the EIA Regulations (as

amended), it is confirmed that there were no technical difficulties or lack of knowledge encountered in the preparation and submission of this application. The site benefits from a modern Environmental Statement within which an accurate description of the base line and site operations remains.

1.7.2 The specialist in-house knowledge and consultancy input has enabled the

collation of this ES and wider application in accordance with the pre application advice offered by the MPA.

1.8 Stakeholder Engagement 1.8.1 The site has previously benefited from annual informal meetings with the local

parish council. Pursuant to the obligations set out in the S106 Agreement dated 18 October 2018, the applicant will be establishing a formal Liaison Committee to enable members of the public to voice any concerns over the scheme.

1.8.2 The committee will meet on a quarterly basis. Members will be provided with a copy of this application as part of the company’s commitment to keeping the committee fully informed.



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SECTION 2 EXISTING SITUATION 2.1 General 2.1.1 The operations at Hints Quarry are well established and comprise the

extraction of in-situ high quality sand and gravel deposits, utilising a solid geology resource. Current land uses on site comprise the following elements:

restored mineral workings; areas undergoing mineral extraction; areas in the process of final restoration; areas within which sand and gravel remain to be extracted; and ancillary and administrative facilities, including mineral processing, plant

and site access.

2.1.2 Access to the processing plant and ancillary facilities is via a dedicated haul road direct off the C36. The route was historically the A5 prior to Watling Street being ‘downgraded’ following the opening of the new A5 dual carriageway. The new A5 runs parallel to the old A5 some 200m to the north, (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/2). It is proposed that this approved and existing access point is continued to be used as part of the development detailed within this application.

2.1.3 The application site covers the entire site (circa 94.7 hectares). Topographical

levels within site are at or around 18 m AOD (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/3) with surrounding land being at or around 140, AOD

2.1.4 The site is relatively remote from residential premises with the nearest noted

as follows:

Common Barn; Woodside Stables; Keepers Cottage; Rock Hill; and Bucks Head Cottage

2.1.5 The plant site is situated in the southern part of the site, and contains a range

of plant and equipment associated with the processing of the extracted sand and gravel including; ancillary management operations such as weighbridge and site offices. The extent of the plant site and the boundaries of the above-referred planning consents are detailed on Plan HQ/NWE/2.

2.1.6 Operations on site are currently within Phase 1 consistent with the approved

scheme detailed under Condition 10 of the consent. 2.1.7 The consent provides for mineral extraction operations to cease no later than

22 October 2025 and restoration 2 years thereafter. 2.2 Layout and Operation



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2.2.1 The application site is some 94.7 hectares in extent, of which the recently

approved north western extension is area is some 18.04 hectares. Land within the application site boundary to the west of the north west extension area required for water management is some 5.9 hectares in extent (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/2).

2.2.2 The remaining area within the existing Hints Quarry is some 71.0 hectares, comprising the existing processing plant site, fresh water and silt lagoon areas, remaining extraction area, soil and overburden storage areas, land undergoing/awaiting restoration, and intervening areas (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/3).

2.2.3 The operations within the site are accessed by a bespoke and dedicated priority junction off the C36 (former A5). Vehicles accessing the site proceed north down a haul road to access the weighbridge and administrative facilities on site (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/3). Vehicles then proceed to the nearby stocking area within the plant site where they are loaded by loading shovel and exit via the weighbridge.

2.2.4 The plant site includes for a number of individual operations/processes as

follows:-

weighbridge and offices; internal haul roads; mineral processing plant including a load out area; mineral conveyors; silt and freshwater lagoons; and stockpiles of processed aggregates.

2.2.4 As raised minerals are transported to the plant site from the extraction area

situated to the north via a field conveyor (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/3). 2.3 Hours of Operation 2.3.1 Under Condition 17 of the consent (refer Appendix 1), extraction, restoration

and processing operations are restricted to between the hours of:

a) No working operations shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below:

• 0700 to 1900 Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0700 to 1300 on Saturdays.

b) No processing of mineral shall be carried out within the Site other than

within the periods stated below: • 0600 to 2200 hours Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0600 to 1300 on Saturdays.



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c) No temporary operations comprising soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds, restoration and aftercare shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below: • 0700 to 1900 Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0700 to 1300 on Saturdays.

2.3.2 The only operational element outside of these hours is maintenance of water

levels in the on-site lagoons using pumps and maintenance activities on plant and equipment in emergency scenarios.

2.3.3 The normal hours of operation defined under part a) of the condition are

understood to relate winning and working of sand and gravel; and the export of aggregate products from the site.

2.3.4 The consent provides for mineral extraction operations to cease no later than

22 October 2025 and restoration 2 years thereafter. 2.4 Landscape and Visual Setting

General Description of the Site 2.4.1 The site is situated in a low value setting with no designations of significance

other than location within the Green Belt. Mineral extraction is confirmed under national policy as not being inappropriate in the Green Belt, as established by continued phases of planning at the site.

2.4.2 The site is separated from the village of Hints by the existing transport

infrastructure which includes the route of the A5 (Hints Bypass). In terms of other forms of transport infrastructure, the A51 is located north of the site with no nearby water of rail assets of note. Rock Hill/Watling Street (the old A5, now C36) runs parallel to and south of the A5 bypass. Flats Lane and Jerry’s Lane form a single length of minor road running north-south, 600m west of the site at its nearest point.

Public Rights of Way

2.4.3 There are a number of Public Rights of Way within (or immediately adjacent to) the application site that are managed in accordance with the progression of the extraction scheme. The north western extension area is bounded by a number of rights of way, with bridleway (BW) ‘Hints 2’ along the northern boundary (Knox’s Grave Lane); BW18 along the southern boundary; BW Hints 3 along the south western boundary, continuing southwards along the western boundary of Hints Quarry; Hints 4 along the north western boundary, which also forms part of the ‘Heart of England Way’, and which continues northwards as ‘Swinfen and Packingdon FP6’ and south westwards as FP Hints 4. Provision has been made as part of the approved development for the temporary diversion of BW 18, and its replacement as part of the final restoration scheme along a route which approximates to its original alignment.

Landuse



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2.4.4 Within the surrounding landscape there are very few dwellings close to the site, with only isolated cottages and farmsteads located within 500 m of the site boundary: one on the south eastern boundary (Buck’s Head Cottages currently un-occupied and will remain so for the duration of the scheme), and one circa 450m to the north (Common Barn). Numerous dwellings are dispersed over the wider area, notably adjacent to road routes and the villages at Hints (to the South) and Hopwas (to the east).

2.4.5 The quarry complex consists of large areas of exposed sand, silt lagoons, operational mineral processing areas and areas of restored land. Some areas have naturally colonised to a combination woodland and scrub. Areas to the north and west consist largely of arable farmland with hedgerow field boundaries, occasional woodland copses and access tracks. To the east and northeast are larger areas of mixed woodland. To the immediate south of the quarry complex are areas of market gardening. Further afield to the south, the main land-use/land cover is a combination of pasture grassland and woodland.

2.4.6 There are no known sensitive landscape or cultural heritage assets on or in the

vicinity of the site. Landform 2.4.7 Published landscape assessments provided as part of the application for the

consent have established that the surrounding landscape is heavily affected by past and current mineral operations at Hints and Hopwas Quarry, such that land levels and gradients are highly variable.

2.4.8 The eastern boundary of the quarry complex forms a ridgeline (aligned

northsouth) at circa 140-145m AOD, beyond which the land falls away into a wide valley. To the west and north the land gradually falls away, undulating slightly, but generally lying between 80m AOD and 110m AOD. To the south, the land is affected by the A5 Hints Bypass which runs along a combination of man-made embankments and cuttings. To the south of this, the land generally starts to rise again, with numerous hillocks present, up to circa 157m AOD. This variably serves to constrain the visibility of the site across the wider landscape.

Landscape Quality

2.4.9 Recent assessments have confirmed that the basis of assessment with regards landscape quality generally ranges from Low to High and Very High in more exceptional situations. A High quality landscape would constitute a nationally designated area such as a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Low quality landscape are those generally associated with previous (derelict) or current industrial uses or other land where the natural components are removed and where little or no other characteristic of landscape merit exists.

2.4.10 The application site is not located within a nationally or regionally designated area. It consists of an operational mineral working (see paragraph 2.4.6 above), with undisturbed elements comprising irregular shaped grassland fields, with hedgerow and hedgerow tree boundaries. Overall, it is of a Medium to Low quality.



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Landscape Value

2.4.11 There are no recognisable landscape designations attached to the application site or any area adjacent to it. The following factors are relevant when considering landscape value:

the site contains few landscape elements that are considered nationally rare or of great importance;

there are a number of Public Rights of Way associated with the application site; and

the site features hedgerows, mature hedgerow trees and small field ponds which are considered part of the visual character.

The area and adjacent character are of Moderate (Medium) value.

Landscape Character and Designations 2.4.12 The recently granted consent included a comprehensive evaluation in this

regard as part of the submitted EIA, and is not proposed to be revisited as part of this application. Notwithstanding the high capacity for change and low susceptibility of the surrounding landscape character is noted meaning that impact scoring is generally of a low magnitude (refer to Section 5.2 below for further details).

2.5 Noise 2.5.1 The application site comprises an existing and consented quarry, including

plant site area used for ancillary purposes in connection with an operational mineral working.

2.5.2 A Noise Impact Assessment has been undertaken in support of the planning application in order to ascertain the potential noise impacts associated with the proposed intensification of use. A copy of the report can be found reproduced at Appendix 2.

2.5.3 In order to establish the existing noise climate in the vicinity of the

abovementioned residential properties, noise monitoring equipment was installed adjacent to Rock Hill to represent the residential properties found in proximity to the site access, and observations taken in February 2019.

2.5.4 The noise monitoring equipment was of Type 1 specification and suitably

weather protected (refer Section 3.0 of the report reproduced at Appendix 3). The microphone was elevated to a height similar to first floor level and at a similar distance from the railway line with the rear elevations of the cottages.

2.5.5 Consistent with existing planning controls, the survey was undertaken during

the hours 0600-2000 at a Rock Hill. This is the only location that can be affected by the changes in HGC activity.

2.5.6 A number of other properties are located around the site, as follows:



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Common Barn; Woodside Stables; Keepers Cottage; and Bucks Head Cottage (currently not occupied).

All un affected by the proposed variation of condition. 2.5.6 Observations by the surveyor confirmed that the monitoring was influenced by

road traffic on the A5, with some aviation activity. The monitoring in particular identified that baseline noise levels at both receptors increased markedly after 06.00 am, consistent with increased vehicular activity on the A5.

2.5.7 Conditions 26-28 inclusive of the consent reproduced at Appendix 1 include definitive limits on normal and temporary site operations consistent with national policy advice. Condition 31 includes suitable content regarding noise mitigation.

2.6 Transport 2.6.1 Access to the site is derived via a T junction from the C36 Watling Street. The

route was previously the A5 prior to Watling Street being ‘downgraded’ following the opening of the new A5 dual carriageway in 2006. The new A5 runs parallel to the old A5 some 200m to the north.

2.6.2 The access road into the quarry is some 900m long, with an initial 600m long section running northwards from the C36. That section averages 3 metres wide with passing bays. The new A5 crosses the quarry access road via a road bridge some 200m north of the site access junction, with the new A5 continuing on embankments to the east and west of the road bridge (refer to Plan HQ/NWE/3).

2.6.3 The junction with the C36 is of modern standard as and accords with the DMRB. The access accommodates tapered acceleration and deceleration lanes, and the access road widens to circa 7m at the junction bell-mouth. Visibility at the site entrance is understood to be in good and the infrastructure is readily accommodates traffic from the site particularly in the context of the substantially reduced traffic flows on the C36 since the construction of the A5 bypass.

2.6.4 The C36 is a single carriageway road, approximately 7.3m wide, with verges averaging 2m wide, including kerbs and gulleys and standard drainage. The vertical alignment generally follows the undulating landform, which serves in places to reduce forward visibility, notably where the highway passes through Rock Hill. This constraint does not affect the viability of the existing access which is proven acceptable.

2.6.5 The C36 has a speed limit of 50MPH from its junction with the A38/A5 to immediately east of the site access. From this point and through the village of Hints to the east the speed limit reduces to 40 MPH.

2.6.6 Historic traffic flow information has confirmed that the A5 bypass now accommodates the vast majority of HGV activity running east to west through



20

this part of the county with total counts along the C36 being less than 10% of the counts on the A5. The C36 therefore has a high capacity to accommodate the activity from the site (both existing and proposed).

2.6.7 Condition 20 of the consent limits HGV activity to and from the site in terms of

mineral extraction. This condition is not proposed to be varied as part of this application, as the changes in annual site tonnage and working hours will not affect maximum daily HGV activity rates. The same applies to the Minerals Transport Plan approved as part of the attendant S106 Agreement.

2.6.8 However, it is a fundamental nature of the quarrying business that processing

and sale of material is linked directly to demand from the local market. HGV activity will therefore vary on a day by day and week by week basis, with the split between different products also subject to market change.

2.6.9 Review of the latest personal injury accident data for the study area does not

highlight any concerns regarding highways safety.



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SECTION 3 THE APPLICATION 3.1 The operations at the site are controlled through the provisions of the consent.

Section 2.2 above confirms the nature of the operations in the site which are all associated with the extraction and processing and distribution of construction materials, with associated site restoration.

3.2 The latest Local Aggregates Assessments for Staffordshire indicates an

improving demand for construction materials, linked into growth within the County and in the West Midlands sub region, and this is reflected in the applicant’s own projections for the site for the next few years.

3.3 Historically the site has operated at up to 700,000 tonnes per annum, but in

more recent years has been limited to around 500,000 tonnes per annum, a function of market conditions and increased levels of downtime for maintenance.

3.4 Tarmac have secured a proportion of the supply of ready mixed concrete


3.5 In order to achieve this activity, it is proposed to vary Condition 19 of the

consent to state:

No more than 1,000,000 tonnes of sand and gravel shall be exported from the site per annum.

3.6 Secondly, it is proposed to change the hours of working in the extraction wider

working areas from the currently approved 7:00 am – 7:00 pm to 6:00 am - 10:00 pm. Furthermore, it is also proposed to vary the Saturday hours defined under the consent. This is proposed to be achieved by the variation of Condition 17a of the consent to ensure that the working hours for conventional activities are more closer aligned to that approved in the plant site area under Condition 17b).

3.7 It is therefore proposed to vary Condition 17 of Consent L.14/08/817/MW as

follows: No operations shall be carried out, with the exception of emergency operations, site security, environmental monitoring or water pumping operations, other than within the periods stated between: a) No working operations shall be carried out within the Site other than

within the periods stated below: • 0600 to 2200 Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0600 to 1600 on Saturdays.



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b) No processing of mineral shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below:

• 0600 to 2200 hours Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0600 to 1300 on Saturdays.

c) No temporary operations comprising soil stripping, placement,

construction and removal of bunds, restoration and aftercare shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below: • 0700 to 1900 Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0700 to 1300 on Saturdays.

No such operations shall take place on Sundays, Bank and Public Holidays.

3.8 The remainder of the amenity conditions in the consent would still be in force and apply under the proposed new hours of operation.

3.9 There are no proposals to vary the current limits on HGV activity to and from

the site as regulated through condition 20 of the same consent, however it is proposed to delete part b) of that condition to remove the restriction on annual HGV activity.

3.10 The existing consent is subject to a S106 Agreement. The expectation is that

although a Deed of Variation would be required (if the MPA were minded to grant consent for this application), this would not vary the schedules attached to the current agreement.



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SECTION 4 PLANNING STATEMENT

4.1 Introduction 4.1.1 Section 38 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 reinforces the

requirements of Section 54a of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) in that development is required to be in accordance with the requirements of the Statutory Development Plan for the area within which an application site sits unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

4.1.2 In respect of the application site, the Development Plan comprises the

following:

Lichfield District Local Plan 2015; and Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Minerals Local Plan 2017.

4.1.3 In addition, and of relevance in considering the scope and extent of any other

material considerations, the proposed development detailed in this planning application have also been assessed against emerging policies and plans, as well as supplementary planning documents.

4.1.4 Finally, the provisions of the National Planning Policy Framework (“NPPF”),

and attendant Planning Practice Guidance (“PPG’s”) will be considered as appropriate.

Planning History 4.1.5 Operations at the quarry are well established, with consents dating back into

the 1950s for various phases of working and restoration. 4.1.6 The operations are currently regulated via a planning permission granted in

October 2018 (reference L.15/04/805-808 MW) for Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth.

4.1.7 The decision was accompanied by a Section 106 agreement that sought to

control vehicle routing to and from the site, and long term aftercare amongst other matters.

4.2 Local Planning Policy Lichfield District Local Plan 2015 4.2.1 The Lichfield District Local Plan (LDLP) was adopted in February 2015. The

LDLP sets out the overarching vision for development within the Borough, as well as the development framework and development control policies, with a plan period through until 2029.

4.2.2 Chapter 1 of the LDLP set out the purpose of the document and its content in

wider national and European legislation and guidance. The document



24

provides strategic and site specific/environmental guidance within the core theme of sustainable development.

4.2.3 The proposals map that accompanies the plan indicates that the application

site is situated in the following designations:

Green Belt; and Opportunity Area for Wind Energy.

4.2.4 Due to the nature and scale of the proposals, and the fact that development is

already proven acceptable at this location, the strategic policies detailed in the spatial vision and strategy are not considered relevant. It is however noted that the presumption in favour of Sustainable Development is maintained at Core Policy 2 of the LDLP. In respect of Core Policy 3, it is considered that the following is notable:

the proposals have been and remain sympathetically designed to protect

the character of the local vicinity; the proposals are appropriate in nature and scale; the location of the site relative to the market reduces the overall need to

travel, providing a centralised and well-established location for the supply of construction materials;

the proposals are appropriately designed in a drainage context and utilise SUDS techniques. The site is situated in Flood Zone 1 and is therefore appropriate for its setting; and

the overall scheme has been designed to minimise the scope for impact on both the local environment and nearby residential amenity. The proposed variation of conditions is consistent with this policy objective.

4.2.5 The renewable energy and sustainability commitments identified in Policies

SC1 and SC2 are noted and will be adhered to wherever possible. 4.2.6 In respect of Chapter 6 and Core Policy 4, it is notable that the increase in

production capacity at this location will mean that the Company is ideally situated to further contribute to the delivery of local infrastructure and on a sub-regional basis.

4.2.7 Chapter 7 and Core Policy 5 consider Sustainable Transport, with an overall

aspiration to improve accessibility and enhancing sustainable transport opportunities. The application is situated within an existing context of regular HGV activity, with a workforce solely supported by car access. There are limited opportunities for effective and sustainable use of other transport modes in this instance. The site access has been demonstrated to be adequate with no requirement for improvement. In respect of Policy ST2, the scheme includes for off-street parking to the appropriate standard.

4.2.8 The content of Chapters 8-10 inclusive are not considered relevant due to the

nature and scale of the proposals. 4.2.9 Chapter 11 considers Natural Resources in terms of protection and resource

management. The proposals will not sterilise mineral resources and are not



25

situated in an area of biodiversity significance. It is considered that the minimal nature and scale of the proposals means that there is limited scope for impact on local environs. It is therefore considered that the proposals are compliant with Core Policy 15, while Policy NR1 is not considered relevant.

4.2.10 The application site is situated in the designated Green Belt. Minerals

extraction is confirmed under National Policy as not being inappropriate in the Green Belt. The site access and plant infrastructure has been subject to scrutiny and evaluation in this regard, with no substantial harm in evidence. As such, there is no conflict with Policy NR2.

4.2.11 The application site is not situated in proximity to any known protected species

occurrences, or any important trees and hedgerows. As such, the contents of Policies NR3-NR4 are not considered relevant. Similarly, the nature of this application means that there is limited scope for impact on the historic landscape over and above existing and therefore no scope for conflict with Policy NR5. The settlement policies of the document articulated in Chapters 13-17 inclusive are not considered relevant to the proposals.

Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Minerals Local Plan 2017 4.2.12 The Staffordshire Minerals Local Plan (SMLP) was adopted in February 2017.

the plan provides specific and focused policy on minerals and associated development in the County. On the proposals map that accompanies the document, it is notable that the site is located in a safeguarded minerals/infrastructure site; adjacent to an allocated extension site; and within a wider mineral safeguarding area.

4.2.13 The strategic objectives of the SMLP include, amongst other matters, an aim to

support the sustainable development of minerals and waste sites to support continued economic growth. The increase in capacity at an exiting location also maximises the benefit. These themes underpin this application.

4.2.14 The adopted SMLP has a plan period until 2030 and provides a strategic tier of

policy control on minerals and ancillary development. The proposals set out within this application are related to primary minerals extraction and the ancillary range of supporting operations maintained by the applicant at Hints Quarry. In this regard it is therefore considered that only Policies 4 and 6 of Chapter 7 of the SMLP are of relevance.

4.2.15 Policy 4 of the SMLP considers the requirements for minimising the impact of

mineral development on people, local communities and the environment. Section 2 above confirms the context of the application site and it not being in (or in proximity to) any nationally designated assets in respect of landscape, ecology, archaeology and/or cultural heritage. Furthermore, the application site is relatively remote from residential development.

4.2.16 The proposals set out within this application are temporary in nature and time-

linked to the end of the current planning consent (2027), and are therefore compliant with item 4.6 of Policy 4. In respect of items h), l) and p) of Policy 4, the nature and scale of the proposals are small in scale and capacity and will not generate any significant cumulative effects. The area of most concern in



26

this regard is traffic impact and the assessment detailed at Section 5.3 below confirms minimal scope in this regard.

4.2.17 The remainder of the assessments undertaken would indicate that there are no

unacceptable adverse effects and therefore no compensatory measures are required. Furthermore, the nature scale and location of the proposals means there is negligible scope for adverse impacts on human health, general amenity and/or the natural/historic environment. As such, the proposals are also considered appropriate under the provision of 4.2 and 4.3 of Policy 4.

4.2.18 In respect of Policy 6, the land will be restored to nature conservation habitats

and agriculture, as regulated through the existing planning consent (refer to Appendix 1). No variations are sought as part of this application. As such, the proposals are considered to be consistent with Policy 6.

Summary 4.2.19 In summary, the content of both County and local policy has been examined

with no instances of policy conflict and some instances of policy support. This application should therefore be determined favourably in accordance with the provisions of the NPPF.

4.3 National Planning Policy 4.3.1 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) document was published in

late March 2012 and set out the government’s requirements for the planning system, reiterating the fact that planning law requires that all applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The guidance superseded previously published planning policy statements, mineral policy statements and mineral planning guidance notes.

4.3.2 The NPPF was subject to review in July 2018 and again in February 2019 (“the

2019 Review”), with an increased emphasis on sustainable design and neighbourhood planning, amongst other matters.

4.3.3 As the principal of development at this location is already established and

technical reports have been provided that indicate no overriding concerns, a full review of the NPPF is not considered to be necessary in this instance.

Planning Practice Guidance to the National Planning Policy Framework 4.3.4 In order to support and develop the themes set out in the NPPF, central

government has released 41 Planning Practice Guidance documents. These provide guidance on administrative matters such as “Consultation and Pre-Decision Matters”, environmental matters such as “Air Quality”, and topic-specific matters such as “Minerals”.

4.3.5 The following PPGs have been reviewed in support of this policy review:

minerals; and noise.



27

Addressing each in turn. Minerals 4.3.6 The Minerals PPG begins by defining a mineral resource in the case of

aggregate as “bodies of rock that are, or may become, of potential economic interest due to their inherent properties”. The PPG notes the unique feature of minerals development in terms of location, temporary duration, potential for adverse and positive effects, and aftercare provisions.

4.3.7 The PPG considers matters such as safeguarding and site selection for

preferred sites. Under the heading “Assessing Environmental Impacts from Minerals Extraction”, the importance of EIA is highlighted and the interaction with other non-planning regulatory regimes, confirming that planning should focus on whether or not the development is an acceptable land use, rather than controlling any given process. The section notes 21 headings under which assessments should be undertaken, and based on the scope of the variation appropriate content is provided in this regard.

4.3.8 The PPG notes the importance of an agreed programme of works which

should look to reduce impacts on the local environment and communities as far as practicable. The overall scheme has been designed with this key theme in mind and remains the case (as per the schemes and conditions approved under the consent and attendant S106 Agreement) with this application to vary.

Noise 4.3.9 The Noise PPG confirms that noise should be considered when “new

developments may create additional noise …”. The PPG offers guidance on the determination of noise impacts, consistent with the Explanatory Note on the Noise Policy Statement for England, and provides guidance on recognition of when noise could be a concern, setting out a noise exposure hierarchy. It is considered that the proposals at Hints would fall under the “noticeable and intrusive” heading, reducing to “not intrusive” with mitigation.

4.3.10 Whilst no significant adverse effects have been identified, the use of

engineering, layout design and appropriate planning conditions as broad types of mitigation will ensure that the development can be undertaken in accordance with the approved guidance. The interaction between other PPGs (i.e. Minerals) is noted in this instance.

4.4 Economic benefit 4.4.1 Mineral products are vital for the UK economy both on a national and local

scale. The majority of the minerals industry output is used in construction and infrastructure projects of all scales.



28

4.4.2 Much of the sand and gravel products from Hints Quarry are used in the manufacture of ready mixed concrete and supplied to construction and building projects within west midland area.

4.4.3 Chapter 2 of the adopted Staffordhire Minerals Local Plan defines the Spatial

Portrait and key mineral planning issues which have been considered in the development of the strategic and local policy articulated in the RMLP. The strategic objectives of the SMLP include, amongst other matters, an aim to support the sustainable development of minerals and waste sites to support continued economic growth.

4.4.4 The site’s strategic position just off the C36 and with access to the A5 and A51

is a well-established location for the distribution of the extracted minerals across a wide geographical area, in this instance including along the transport corridor for the nationally significant HS2 development.

4.4.5 As examples of aggregate raw material requirements:-

a typical six storey city centre office building requires about 16,000 tonnes

of aggregates to build; a new school requires in excess of 15,000 tonnes of concrete; a new community hospital requires over 53,000 tonnes of concrete; housing schemes typically require about 200 tonnes of aggregates and 12

tonnes of mortar per unit. This is of key interest in and around Lichfield given the growth and housing targets identified in the emerging Local Plan.

4.4.6 Minerals make a significant contribution to tax revenues, contributing about

£500m of VAT payments in 2013 through the purchase of goods, materials and services necessary to its operations. More VAT is then generated through the sale of goods and products that use raw minerals in their manufacture (CBI, the UK mineral extraction industry paper dated February 2016).

4.4.7 The aggregates levy (tax) currently sits at £2.00 per tonne, generating over £300m per annum in tax revenues each year. Business rates are also generated, and collected locally.

4.4.8 Based on current plant capacity and the changes of working hours sought in

this application, the site is able to produce up to 1,000,000 tonnes of high-quality sand and gravel products each year to meet a variety of uses. Based on the geology of the deposit, the sand and gravel within the site can be processed to derive a range of products including:- graded aggregates for bulk applications – including decorative aggregates; graded aggregates for the manufacture of ready mixed concrete; asphalt sand; mortar sand; pipeline bedding sand; and other engineering fill applications.

4.4.9 Tarmac have secured a proportion of the supply of ready mixed concrete to the

HS2 project, thereby requiring increased aggregate supplies to the RMX



29

plants. Due to the aggregate quality, Hints will be a key source of aggregates to the project.

4.4.10 It is anticipated that the proposed variation would maintain direct jobs for five employees together with some five jobs for hauliers employed direct by the applicant.

4.4.11 In addition to the direct employment at the quarry, there will be indirect local

employment prospects sustained by the money spent on local goods and services in connection with the project, including local hauliers, sub-contractors, and suppliers of plant and use of construction materials.

4.4.12 In addition to these direct socio economic benefits, the operation of such a site

would contribute into the economy through taxes, business rates and aggregates levy contributions, meaning that the proposed variation of conditions has the potential to provide substantial wider socio economic benefits over the life of the scheme.



30

SECTION 5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 5.1 General 5.1.1 The applicant recognises the importance of the natural and built environment

in the locality of the site and having the benefit of operational experience at similar sites, the applicant has a thorough knowledge of the potential environmental impacts of its operations. This knowledge underpins the decisions regarding the appropriate assessments in support of this application.

5.1.2 A review of the proposals within this planning application has been undertaken

by both the applicant and the MPA. This review indicates that the following technical assessments should be undertaken:

(i) landscape and visual;

(ii) noise impact assessment; and (iii) highways and traffic assessment. 5.1.3 In addition and consistent with the local validation criteria of the MPA and the

EIA Regulations appropriate consideration should also be made of the following:-

(iv) potential effects on drainage and flood risk; and (v) interaction and cumulative effects. 5.1.4 These and other matters are addressed below. 5.2 Landscape and Visual Effects 5.2.1 The site is located within a rural context of limited sensitivity and value.

Nevertheless, the proposals have been designed carefully to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding landscape. The acceptability of the site within the Green Belt designation is already established in planning terms and the variation sought has no impact in this regard.

5.2.2 The visual components of the site remains as the site access; mineral washing

plant; along with other ancillary facilities and mobile plant. However, these will not be changed as a result of this scheme. Furthermore the application site has the benefit of established screen planting along the southern and eastern perimeters that will be managed to maintain a buffer between the site and nearby residential premises.

5.2.3 The proposals will have no discernable impact on landscape character as the

activities are broadly similar to existing and of a temporary nature. It is therefore considered that any effects are reversible and of limited significance.

5.2.4 Similarly, previous phases of assessment have indicated a constrained zone of

visual significance with long term beneficial effects of minor significance predicted over the scheme. The proposed variation of condition will have no impact in this regard.

5.3 Highways and Traffic



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5.3.1 With regard to highways and access to the site, an important factor is that the

site has a purpose built access already in place, providing excellent road connections to nearby market areas.

5.3.2 The use of the access point into the site is restricted under condition 23 of the

existing planning consent. 5.3.3 Previous assessment for the site has been based on typical outputs of up to

750,000 tonnes per annum, with the conclusion that the operation of the plant site will not result in any adverse material impact on the safety or operation of the highway network.

5.3.4 Condition 20 confirms that daily HCV movements should not exceed 350 (175

in and 175 out) per working day, with a caveat that on average over a working year figures should not exceed 254 movements (127 in and 127 out). The maximum figure allows or just under 1,000,000 tonnes of annual production, and is proven to be acceptable in planning and highways terms.

5.3.5 The C36 was a former trunk road and therefore has the physical

characteristics to support high numbers of HGV activity. Condition 20 already confirms the acceptability of a higher rate of activity, which under the proposals to increase annual output would be facilitated with an increase in extraction hours but not an increase in plant site hours. The HCV movement rates therefore main valid and appropriate.

5.3.6 As no change in maximum numbers are envisaged, the level of change is

below that where detailed assessment is required under the appropriate guidance.

5.3.7 The access provisions into the site are considered to remain suitable for the

nature and scale of activities to be undertaken. 5.3.9 The proposed variation of conditions will not affect the overall duration of the

consented operations, and will therefore not create any cumulative effects over and above those already consented overtime.

5.3.9 It is therefore concluded that the proposals will not affect the existing capacity

or safety of the nearby road network. 5.4 Noise 5.4.1 A noise survey and report was commissioned to be undertaken by SLR

Consulting in support of the proposed variations sought. This report considered the effect on noise sensitive receptors of the proposals and makes recommendations, where appropriate, for noise mitigation. A copy of the noise report is reproduced in full at Appendix 2 of this Written Statement.

5.4.2 The noise climate (as described in Section 2.5 above) is characterised by

steady continuous noise from road traffic along the A5.



32

5.4.3 The nearest residential properties to the application site are the residential premises located off Watling Street/Rock Hill and isolated premises around the site

5.4.4 The sound level predictions and the methodology used in the assessment are

set out in Section 4.0 of the report reproduced at Appendix 2. The calculations have been taken in accordance with BS5228 and BS4142, consistent with best practice guidance.

5.4.5 The assessment is also detailed in Section 4.0 and considers the scope for

impact on nearby residential premises in particular along Rock Hill. The assessment indicates that during the hours of 6.00 am – 7.00 am, the distribution operations could be undertaken within the confines of best practice guidance.

5.4.6 The assessment demonstrates that potential noise levels are expected to

remain within the 55 dB limit recommended by the PPG minerals for the period 07:00 – 22:00. From 06:00 – 07:00 the proposals are assessed to have a negligible long term effect.

5.4.7 The level of impact is not considered to be significant and is therefore

appropriate in the context of best practice guidance. 5.5 Other Matters including Interaction and Cumulative Effects 5.5.1 The local validation criteria adopted by the LPA included reference to a few

matters that do not need a comprehensive assessment. (i) Flood Risk and Site Drainage 5.5.2 The application site is located in Flood Zone 1, and has had no history of

flooding events (be it fluvial, groundwater or surface water sourced). The site benefits from a comprehensive drainage regime, including petrol interceptors, which ensure the best operation of the site in accordance with EA process guidance notes.

5.5.3 The proposals are contemporary with that already undertaken on site and are

a water compatible use (which is an appropriate form of development in Flood Zone 1 under the standing advice issued by central government) and therefore do not present an increased risk to surrounding environs.

5.5.4 The proposals have no effect in this regard and therefore it is considered that

no detailed FRA is necessary. (ii) Interaction and Cumulative Effects 5.5.7 The consideration of interaction effects is detailed under Government Circular

02/99, appropriate PPG and IEEM Guidance. The proposed changes are limited in scope and therefore have limited potential for interaction effects over and above the currently permitted scheme.



33

5.5.8 The scope of cumulative impact via an intensification of use is noted but considered to be minimal, given the site context. This is reflected in the technical assessments that accompany this application.

(iii) Alternatives 5.5.9 The applicant has a realistic ambition to further establish the presence of Hints

in the supply of construction materials. The demands of the construction industry are for ever-earlier hours of materials supply, and therefore the proposed change in working hours seeks to meet that demand.

5.5.10 If the status quo were to be maintained, this would lead to loss of business that

would affect the overall efficiency and optimisation of the plant at this key location, in terms of both the business and minerals supply under the provisions of the MLP. The “do nothing” scenario would therefore not support continued economic growth, which would be counter to the NPPF and local policy objectives.



34

SECTION 6 NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY

6.1 Hints Quarry is a key minerals site in the south of Staffordshire making a vital

contribution to meeting the needs for construction materials in the locality. The site benefits from planning consent (reference L.15/04/805-808 MW) for Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth.

6.2 Historically the site has operated at up to 700,000 tonnes per annum, but in

more recent years has been limited to around 500,000 tonnes per annum, a function of market conditions and increased levels of downtime.

6.3 Tarmac have secured a proportion of the supply of ready mixed concrete


6.4 In order to achieve this activity, it is proposed to vary Conditions 19 to state:

No more than 1,000,000 tonnes of sand and gravel shall be exported from the site per annum.

6.5 Secondly, it is proposed to change the hours of working in the extraction and

wider operating areas from the currently approved 7:00 am – 6:00 pm to 6:00 am - 10:00 pm, this being consistent with the approved hours of operation for the plant site. Furthermore, it is also proposed to vary the Saturday hours defined under the consent. This is proposed to be achieved by the variation of Condition 17 of the consent, as detailed in section 3 above.

6.6 There are no proposals to vary the current limits on HGV activity to and from

the site as regulated through condition 20 of the same consent, however it is proposed to delete part b) of that condition to remove the restriction on annual HGV activity.

6.7 Adopted and emerging planning policy includes large scale policy support for

the nature of the proposals set out within this application. The proposals have several key benefits, including:

the optimisation of output from a consented and safeguarded plant site

location; the maintenance of the workforce at the site; and the creation of other contributions/business opportunities to local

business and councils.



35

6.8 This application is supported by specific technical assessments, which demonstrate that the proposals can be undertaken within the guidelines set out in British Standards and other best practice guidance. Potential impacts on nearby premises can be minimised through appropriately worded planning conditions, as per the existing consent.

6.9 Based on the applicant’s experience at the site it was considered that the two

principal areas of potential environmental impact are under traffic and noise. The submitted reports include appropriate baseline data and detailed assessments consistent with best practice guidance.

6.10 This ES (and MDS) has been prepared in accordance with appropriate

guidance by appropriately qualified persons. 6.11 There is positive policy support for the continued use of site and nothing has

been identified that would warrant a refusal of planning consent.



36

PLAN HQ/NWE/2

Application Site Context

RESTORATION

2014/2015

RESTORATION

2014/2015

RESTORATION

2013

RESTORATION

2013

Scale Date

FULMAR HOUSE

BEIGNON CLOSE

OCEAN WAY

CARDIFF. CF24 5PB

T: 0292 049 1010

F: 029 2048 7903

www.slrconsulting.com

04520.00022.18.H

Q-N

WE

-2.1 site context.dw

g

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. LICENCE NUMBER AL100012293

REPRODUCED BY PERMISSION OF ORDNANCE SURVEY ON

BEHALF OF HMSO. CROWN COPYRIGHT AND DATABASE RIGHT

OS DATA LICENCE EXPIRATION:

N

W

S

E

HQ/NWE/2

1:5000 @A2 FEBRUARY 2015

APPLICATION SITE CONTEXT

NORTH WESTERN EXTENSION

PLANNING APPLICATION

HINTS QUARRY

Client supplied

0 50 100 150 200m 300 400 500

Metres

SITE PHOTOGRAPH DATED 2010

NOTES

APPLICATION SITE BOUNDARY

OTHER LAND IN THE

APPLICANT'S CONTROL

LEGEND

NORTH WEST EXTENSION

PROPOSED UNDISTURBED

LAND

RESTORATION PROGRAMME

(2013 - 2015)



37

PLAN HQ/NWE/3

Site Plan/Quarry Survey

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

EP

IL

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

Water Level

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

SP

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

Lamp/Elec Pole

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

IC

PO

PO

PO

PO

PO

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

MH

SITE ENTRANCE

Lagoon

water level

99.37 (13.03.14)

Lagoon

water level

103.26 (13.03.14)

Lagoon

water level

113.55 (14.03.14)

water level

129.16 (08.09.09)

Carpark

Silt

Stocking area

Stocking area

Stocking area

Silt

Tank

Workshop

C

o

n

v

e

y

o

r

O

f

f

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s

Silt

Woodland

Woodland

Scrub/Woodland

Scrub/Woodland

Scrub/Woodland

S

c

r

u

b

/W

o

o

d

la

n

d

Woodland

T

r

a

c

k

T

r

a

c

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T

ra

c

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T

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Lagoon

Hints

2

H

in

ts

1

8

H

in

t

s

2

S

w

infen &

P

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gton 12

S

w

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6

H

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3

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4

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3

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2

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6

8

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8

6

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8

Scale Date

FULMAR HOUSE

BEIGNON CLOSE

OCEAN WAY

CARDIFF. CF24 5PB

T: 0292 049 1010

F: 029 2048 7903

www.slrconsulting.com

04520.00022.18.H

Q-N

WE

-3.1 current situation.dw

g

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. LICENCE NUMBER AL100012293

REPRODUCED BY PERMISSION OF ORDNANCE SURVEY ON

BEHALF OF HMSO. CROWN COPYRIGHT AND DATABASE RIGHT

OS DATA LICENCE EXPIRATION:

N

W

S

E

HQ/NWE/3

1:5000 @A2 FEBRUARY 2015

QUARRY SURVEY

NORTH WESTERN EXTENSION

PLANNING APPLICATION

HINTS QUARRY

Client supplied

0 50 100 150 200m 300 400 500

Metres

APPLICATION SITE BOUNDARY

LEGEND

FOOTPATH

BRIDLEPATH

EXISTING SPOT LEVEL

103.9

EXISTING LAGOONS



38

APPENDIX 1

Copy of Planning Consent L.15/04/805-808 MW

dated October 2018

Application Reference Number L.15/04/805-808 MW

l''V'' Staffordshire ,,\, .... ~\,...,J County Council

To: Cemex UK Operations Limited and Tarmac Trading Limited c/o Tarmac Trading Ltd. Croxden Quarry Freehay Near Cheadle ST10 1RH

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990

PROJECTS REQUIRING AN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

PERMISSION FOR DEVELOPMENT

Staffordshire County Council, pursuant to powers under the above-mentioned Act, and having taken into consideration the environmental information, hereby permit:

Proposed North West extension to Hints Quarry; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased

quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth

subject to the condition(s) and reasons specified hereunder.

Definition of Consent

1. This planning permission shall only relate to the site edged red on the plan entitled 'Application site plan - annotated to show the access' (Dwg No HQ-NWE-1), hereafter referred to as 'the Site', and the development hereby permitted shall only be carried out within the Site in accordance with the following approved documents, plans and details:

• Application Form dated 12 February 2015; • Agricultural Holding certificate dated 12 February 2015 • Certificate B dated 12 February 2015; • Planning Application Statement dated January 2015 and Appendices; • Non-Technical Summary dated January 2015; • Environmental Statement and Appendices; • Application site plan - annotated to show the access (Dwg No HQ/NWE/1); • Application site context (Dwg No HQ/NWE/2); • Quarry Survey (Dwg No HQ/NWE/3); • Geological investigations (Dwg No HQ/NWE/4); • Rocksand lsopachytes (Dwg No HQ/NWE/5); • Mineral isopachytes (Dwg No HQ/NWE/6);

Page 1 of 19


• Base of extraction contours (Dwg No HQ/NWE/7); • Block phasing (Dwg No HQ/NWE/8); • Phase 1 plan (Dwg no HQ/NWE/9); • Phase 2 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/10); • Phase 3 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/11); • Phase 4 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/12); • Phase 5 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/13); • Phase 6 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/14); • Phase 7 plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/15); • Final restoration works (Dwg No HQ/NWE/16); • Restoration master plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/17); • Target Notes from Ecological Walkover Survey (Addendum); • Email from Shaun Denny dated 19 June 2015 concerning noise survey • Restoration Masterplan (dwg no. H110/00013 Rev C); • Letter from Shaun Denny concerning submission of Revised Restoration

Scheme dated 8 December 2015; • Existing Quarry Complex - Restoration Masterplan (dwg no. HT110/00015 Rev

C), and; • Notes on Changes to drawings H110 00013 (Restoration Masterplan) and

H110 0015 (Existing Quarry Complex).

Approved details related to planning permission ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW:

a) Delegated letter (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW D3 dated 3 October 2006) re condition 29 (noise monitoring scheme);

b) Delegated letter (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW D5 dated 18 January 2006) re condition 37 (external lighting); and,

c) Delegated letter (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW 06 dated 20 June 2007) re condition 8 (quarry access road improvements).

except in so far as the approved documents, plans and details referred to above are amended by the conditions specified below.

Reason: To define the permission and to ensure the permission is implemented in all respects in accordance with the submitted details.

Commencement of the Development

2. This development hereby permitted shall be deemed to have commenced on the date of this planning permission.

Reason: In order to comply with the provisions of Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990, as amended by Section 51 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act, 2004 and also to enable the Mineral Planning Authority to monitor operations and to ensure compliance with this permission.

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Notification of Commencement

3. The developer shall notify the Mineral Planning Authority in writing within two weeks of the following:

a) The date of commencement of soil stripping operations within each phase of the development shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/8);

b) The date of commencement of the 'working operations' within each phase of the development shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/8);

c) The date of commencement of the 'restoration operations' within each phase of the development;

d) The date of cessation of the 'restoration operations' within each phase of the development;

e) The date of commencement of the 'aftercare operations' within each phase of the development; and,

f) The date of cessation of the 'aftercare operations' within each phase of the development.

Definition of the 'Working Operations' and the 'Restoration Operations'.

For the purposes of this permission:

a) The term 'working operations' shall mean any operations associated with the winning and working of minerals, and the processing and treatment for sale of minerals; and;

b) The term 'restoration operations' shall mean any other operations described in the approved Restoration and Aftercare Scheme (Conditions 50 to 52).

Reason: To require the recording of the commencement and cessation dates for the phased development to enable the Mineral Planning Authority to effectively monitor the progress of the operations, in the interests of the environment, the amenity of local residents, and, to secure the restoration of the Site to a beneficial use at the earliest opportunity and to high environmental standards to in this Green Belt location in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policies 4 and 6); the National Planning Policy Framework (sections 12, 13, 15 and 17); Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - restoration and aftercare of mineral sites).

Cessation of the Development and Expiry of the Permission

4. The working operations shall cease no later than 22 October 2025 (being 7 years from the date of the planning permission), hereafter referred to as 'the cessation date'. The restoration operations shall cease no later than 2 years after the cessation date or by 22 October 2027, whichever is the sooner.

Page 3of19


5. No later than 12 months after the cessation date or by 22 October 2026, whichever is the sooner, all buildings, structures, plant, machinery, stockpiles and hardstanding areas shall be removed from the Site unless required to be temporarily retained in accordance with the approved Restoration and Aftercare Scheme (Conditions 6 or 50 to 52).

6. In the event that no working and restoration operations are undertaken for a continuous period of 24 months prior to the cessation date, the operations shall be deemed to have ceased ('the deemed cessation date') and no later than 3 months after the deemed cessation date a Revised Restoration and Aftercare Scheme shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Revised Restoration and Aftercare Scheme shall be supported by information to explain the revisions to the approved Restoration and Aftercare Scheme (Conditions 50 to 52). The Site shall thereafter be restored and subject to aftercare in accordance with the approved Revised Restoration and Aftercare Scheme.

7. Written notification shall be given to the Mineral Planning Authority within 14 days of the cessation of the working operations and the cessation of the restoration operations within the Site.

8. This planning permission shall expire when the Mineral Planning Authority have provided written confirmation that the Site has been restored and subject to aftercare in accordance with the requirements of the approved Restoration and Aftercare Scheme (Conditions 50 to 52).

Reasons (4 to 8): To ensure compliance with this permission, in the interests of the environment, the amenity of local residents, and, to secure the restoration of the Site to a beneficial use at the earliest opportunity and to high environmental standards in this Green Belt location in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policies 4 and 6); the National Planning Policv Framework (sections 12, 13, 15 and 17); Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - restoration and aftercare of mineral sites); and, to comply with the requirements of Schedule 5 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 which requires that every permission for the winning and working of minerals shall have a condition as to the duration of the development. Also to secure the restoration of the Site in the event that the permitted use ceases before the cessation date.

Note: There is a requirement in the Section 106 Legal Agreement to regularly review the Restoration Masterplan and to carry out extended aftercare over an additional 10-year period.

Note: To limit the duration of sand and gravel extraction to the timescale applied for (i.e. 7 years from the date of the permission with additional 2 years to restore the site).

Knowledge of the Permission

9. The terms of this planning permission and any documents subsequently approved in accordance with this planning permission shall be made known and be

Page 4of19


accessible to any person(s) given responsibility for the management or control of the activities/operations on the Site.

Reason: To enable easy reference and to encourage compliance with the requirement of the planning permission so as to ensure the orderly operation of the Site.

The Site Layout Plan and Review

10. No working operations or restoration operations shall be carried out other than in a phased manner in general accordance with the 'Phase 1' plan (Dwg no HQ/NWE/9); the 'Phase 2' plan (Dwg No HQ-NWE/1 O); the 'Phase 3' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/11); the 'Phase 4' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/12); the 'Phase 5' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/13); the 'Phase 6' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/14); and the 'Phase 7' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/15) and moreover in accordance with the approved detailed Site Layout Plan(s) required by Condition 11.

11. No later than 12 months after the date of this permission, a detailed Site Layout Plan(s) ('the Site Layout Plan') (at 1 :2500 scale or as otherwise appropriate) shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority.

The Site Layout Plan(s) shall include but may not be limited to the following details:

a) The permitted boundary of the Site shown as a red line;

b) The limit of excavation shown as an orange line;

c) The overall phasing and direction of working and restoration;

d) The areas that have previously been worked and restored;

e) The areas currently being worked and restored;

f) The areas to be worked and restored in the next 5 years;

g) The surface water drainage, including settlement lagoons;

h) The location, heights, profiles and treatment of storage and screening mounds;

i) Contours to show the maximum depth of working;

j) Contours to show the final restoration levels and where they marry in to existing contours on adjacent land;

k) The access to the Site the hard-surfaced internal access road, offices, parking areas, compounds, fuel storage facilities, and weighbridge;

I) The mineral processing plant and storage areas (within the 'Processing plant site' shown on the Application Site Plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/1 ));

Page 5of19


m) The boundary fencing and security gates;

n) Services crossing the Site;

o) Existing and diverted footpaths within/around the Site; and,

p) Tree/shrub/hedgerow planting and protection areas and fencing.

The Site shall be worked and restored in accordance with the approved Site Layout Plan(s).

12. On the 3rd, 5th and 7th anniversaries of the date of this permission, a Progress Report, including an update to the approved Site Layout Plan(s) required by Condition 11 above, shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority.

The submitted Progress Report shall demonstrate the progress that has been made in the previous years relative to the approved Site Layout Plan(s). The Progress Report shall also consider the need to submit revised details for the working and restoration of the Site in the event that insufficient progress has been made relative to the cessation date (Condition 4).

The Site shall operate in accordance with the latest approved Site Layout Plan(s).

Reasons (10 to 12): To assist with the effective monitoring of the planning permission, to ensure the orderly operation of the Site in this Green Belt location and to protect the environment and amenity of local residents in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); the National Planning Policv Framework (sections 12, 13, 15 and 17) and; Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction and restoration and aftercare of minerals sites).

Site Appearance and Storage of Materials and Limitation of the Use of the Site

13. All buildings, structures, plant, machinery and hard-surfaces shall be maintained in good order and fit for purpose for the duration of the permission.

14. All redundant buildings, structures, plant, machinery or vehicles shall be removed from the Site.

15. Notwithstanding the provisions of the Town and Country Plannina {General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (or any Order amending, replacing or reenacting that Order), no fixed plant or machinery, buildings, structures and erections, or private ways shall be erected, extended, installed, re-arranged, replaced or altered within the Site without the prior written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority.

16. Notwithstanding the prov1s1ons of the Town and Country Plannina {Use Classes) Order 1987 (or any Order amending, replacing or re-enacting that Order),

Page 6of19


the Site shall not be used for any purposes other than that which is the subject of this permission.

Reasons (13 to 16): To protect the visual amenity in this Green Belt location in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); Lichfield District Local Plan Strategv (policy BE1); the National Planning Policy Framework (sections 12, 13, 15 and 17); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

Management of the operations

Hours of Operation

17. No operations shall be carried out, with the exception of emergency operations, site security, environmental monitoring or water pumping operations, other than within the periods stated between:




• 0600 to 2200 hours Mondays to Fridays; and, • 0600 to 1300 on Saturdays.

c) No temporary operations comprising soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds, restoration and aftercare shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below:



Reasons: To protect the amenity of local residents and to ensure the orderly operation of the Site in this Green Belt location in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-onTrent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); Lichfield District Local Plan Strategy (policy BE1); the National Planning Policy Framework (Sections 9, 15 and 17) and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

Site Access, Output, Vehicle Numbers and Highway Safety

18. No vehicles shall enter or leave the Site other than by the way of the access from the AS as marked as 'X' on the 'Application Site Plan' (Dwg No HQINWE/1 ).

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19. No more than 700,000 tonnes of sand and gravel shall be exported from the Site per annum.

20. The number of HCV movements to and from the Site shall not exceed:

a) a maximum of 350 movements per full working day (175 in and 175 out); and,

b) an average of 254 movements per full working day (127 in and 127 out) when calculated over a 12-month period commencing from the date of this permission.

21. No loads of mineral shall leave the Site unless the load has first been securely contained or sheeted.

22. No vehicles associated with the development hereby permitted shall leave the Site in a condition whereby mud, dirt, dust or other deleterious material shall be deposited on the public highway.

23. The junction of the access road with the A5 shall be maintained in accordance with approved plans (ref. L.021091805-808 MW 06 dated 20 June 2007.

Reasons (18 to 23) : To limit the amount of sand and gravel extraction per annum to the amount applied for and to limit the maximum and average number of HGV movements to the numbers applied for; and, in the interests of highway safety and convenience to other highway users; to define the access/egress; and to minimise the risk of deleterious material being deposited on the highway and to minimise the generation of dust: in accordance with the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); the National Planning Policv Framework (sections 9, 15 and 17); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

General Environmental Protection

Soil Management

24. Soil management shall be carried out in accordance with the prov1s1ons described in Chapter 8 of the Environmental Statement and for the avoidance of doubt all such soils and sub-soils shall be retained on the Site for the purposes of restoration.

25. All soil and sub-soil storage mounds shall be located in accordance with the approved locations shown on 'Phase 1' plan (Dwg no HQINWEl9); the 'Phase 2' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl10); the 'Phase 3' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl11); the 'Phase 4' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl12); the 'Phase 5' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl13); the 'Phase 6' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl14); and the 'Phase 7' plan (Dwg No HQINWEl15) and shown on the latest approved Site Layout Plan(s) (Conditions 12).

Reasons (24 to 25): To safeguard the soil resources in the interest of the restoration of the Site to high environmental standards in this Green Belt location in accordance with: the

Page 8of19


Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); the National Planning Policv Framework (sections 13 and 17); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals -restoration and aftercare of mineral sites) .

Noise

26. No operations, with the exception of soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds, restoration operations, shall take place between the hours of 0700 - 1900 that would result in site attributable noise levels above those specified below, at any of the noise sensitive locations listed.

1 hour LAeq a) Adjacent to Common Barn 54dB b) Adjacent to Woodside Stables 55 dB c) Adjacent to Keepers Cottage 50 dB d) Adjacent to Rock Hill 55 dB e) Adjacent to Bucks Head Cottage 55 dB

27. No operations shall take place between the hours of 0600 - 0700 and 1900 -2200 hours that would result in site attributable noise levels above those specified below, at any of the noise sensitive locations listed.

1 hour LAeq a) Adjacent to Common Barn 54 dB b) Adjacent to Woodside Stables 54 dB c) Adjacent to Keepers Cottage 48 dB d) Adjacent to Rock Hill 55 dB e) Adjacent to Bucks Head Cottage 55 dB

28. Temporary operations such as soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds, restoration and aftercare shall not exceed a noise level of 67dB(A) 1 hour LAeq for any longer than 8 weeks in any 12 month period at any of the noise sensitive locations listed in Condition 26.

29. Prior to the commencement of soil stripping operations in Phase 1 shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (dwg No HQINWE/8), a revised Noise Monitoring Scheme, based on the previously approved scheme (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW 03 dated 3 October 2006), shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. Noise monitoring of the operations shall be carried out in accordance with the approved scheme.

30. Prior to the commencement of mineral extraction in Phase 4, a 3-metre high screening bund shall be constructed to the east of Bucks Head Cottages in the location shown on the 'Phase 4' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/12).

31. Best practicable means shall be employed to minimise the noise generated by the operations hereby permitted. The means shall include but may not be limited to those listed below:

Page 9of19


a) All vehicles, plant and machinery used on the Site shall be operated with closed engine covers;

b) All engines shall be fitted with effective silencers which shall be regularly maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions; and,

c) All vehicles required to be fitted with reversing alarms shall be fitted with broadband 'white' noise reversing alarms or other suitable non-audible reversing aids, and these shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and specification.

Dust

32. Best practicable means shall be employed to minimise the dust generated by the operations hereby permitted.

33. Dust suppression shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions described in Chapter 11 to the Environmental Statement.

34. No operations hereby permitted shall be undertaken unless all haul roads and hard surfaced areas where operations are taking place or due to take place within the Site are treated with water during dry weather conditions to minimise dust emissions.

Lighting

35. All external lighting and any other illumination proposed at the Site shall be implemented and maintained in accordance with the approved details (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW 05 dated 18 January 2006).

36. Any external floodlighting or other illumination shall be positioned so as not to cause glare or light spillage to the occupiers of nearby properties and to highway users on nearby roads and to minimise light pollution.

Burning of Waste

37. No waste materials shall be burned on the Site at any time.

Groundwater monitoring

38. Groundwater monitoring shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions described in Chapter 9 to the Environmental Statement.

Storage and application of oils, fuels or chemicals

39. Any facilities for the storage of oils, fuels or chemicals shall be sited on impervious bases and surrounded by impervious bund walls. The volume of the bunded compound shall be at least equivalent to the capacity of the tank plus 10%. If there is multiple tankage, the compound shall be at least equivalent to the

Page 10of19


capacity of the largest tank or vessel of the combined capacity of interconnected tanks or vessels plus 10%. All filling points, associated pipe work, vents, gauges and sight glasses must be located within the bund or have separate secondary containment. The drainage system of the bund shall be sealed with no discharge to any watercourse, land or underground strata. Associated pipe work shall be located above ground and protected from accidental damage. All filling points and tank/vessels overflow pipe outlets shall be detailed to discharge downwards into the bund.

Reasons (26 to 39):To minimise potential adverse environmental effects from noise, dust, lighting and the storage of potentially polluting liquids and chemicals, to protect groundwater and to protect the amenity of local residents in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); Lichfield District Local Plan Strategy (Core Policy 3 and policy NR9); the National Planning Policy Framework (sections 12, 15 and 17); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

Site Security

40. The Site shall be securely fenced.

Reasons: In the interests of public safety in accordance in accordance with Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan ((policy 4); the Lichfield Local Plan Strategy (Core Policy 3); and, the National Planning Policy Framework (sections 11 and 13).

Nature Conservation and Archaeology

41. Prior to the commencement of the soil stripping in Phase 1 of the development, an updated ecological assessment for Phase 1 shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (dwg No HQ/NWE/8) shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The updated ecological assessment shall include, but may not be limited to:

a) an updated botanical survey, carried out between June and September in the 12 months preceding the soil stripping in Phase 1;

b) further surveys for badgers which shall be carried out by a suitably experienced and qualified ecologist to appropriate published guidelines no more than three months prior to the commencement of soil stripping;

c) recommendations related to but not limited to the ongoing ecological protection of the operational and non-operational areas at Site; and,

d) the requirements for further species-specific surveys, including details of the programme of further surveys to be carried out in accordance with the requirements of (a and b above), and the submission of the surveys and recommendations to the Mineral Planning Authority for written approval, which shall in any event be submitted no later than 12 months after the date of this permission.

Page 11of19


The recommendations of the updated ecological assessment and further surveys and recommendations shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

42. No later than 12 months after the date of this permission, an updated ecological assessment excluding Phase 1 shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (dwg No HQ/NWE/8) shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The updated ecological assessment shall include, but may not be limited to:

a) an updated botanical survey carried out between June and September by a suitably experienced botanist;

b) further protected I priority species surveys for breeding birds, badgers and great crested newts which shall be carried out by a suitably experienced and qualified ecologist to appropriate published guidelines for protected species, during the first appropriate surveying season following consent for the specific species;

c) recommendations related to but not limited to the ongoing ecological protection of the operational and non-operational areas at Site; and,

d) the requirements for further species-specific surveys, including details of the programme of further surveys to be carried out in accordance with the requirements of (a and b above), and the submission of the surveys and recommendations to the Mineral Planning Authority for written approval, which shall in any event be submitted no later than 12 months after the date of this permission.

The recommendations of the updated ecological assessment and further surveys and recommendations shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

43. Prior to the commencement of the Phase 1 of the development, a 5-metre buffer between the northern topsoil screening mound shown on the 'Phase 1' plan (Dwg no HQ/NWE/9) and Knox's Grave Lane shall be clearly pegged out.

44. Prior to the commencement of soil stripping operations in Phase 2 shown on the 'Phase 2' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/10), a Method Statement for the control of cotoneaster ('cotoneaster horizontalis') shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Method Statement shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

45. No later than 6 months after the date of this permission, a Reptile Mitigation Strategy shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Reptile Mitigation Strategy shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

Page12of19


46. No later than 6 months after the date of this permission, a Method Statement for the control of New Zealand pygmy weed shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Method Statement shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

47. No stripping of vegetation or soils shall take place during the bird breeding season (March - August) unless preceded by a bird breeding survey by a suitably experienced ecologist, the results of which shall be submitted to the Mineral Planning Authority within 4 weeks of the bird breeding survey being carried out. If any active nests are found during the bird breeding survey these must remain undisturbed until they can be confirmed to no longer be in use.

48. Within 3 months of the date of this permission, a Badger Monitoring and Mitigation Plan shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Badger Monitoring and Mitigation Plan shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details.

Reasons (41 to 48) : To safeguard protected species and to protect breeding birds in accordance with the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); the Lichfield Local Plan Strategy (Core Policy 13); the National Planning Policy Framework (section 15); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

49. Prior to the commencement of soil stripping operations in Phase 1 (shown on 'Phase 1' plan (Dwg no HQ/NWE/9), an Archaeological Investigation Scheme ('the Scheme') for Phases 1 to 7 shown on the 'Block phasing' plan (Dwg No HQ/NWE/8) shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. The Scheme shall provide details of the programme of archaeological works to be carried out, including post-excavation reporting and appropriate publication and on-site interpretation. The Scheme shall be implemented in full in accordance with the approved details.

Reason: To enable sites of archaeological interest to be adequately investigated and recorded in accordance with the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); the Lichfield Local Plan Strategy (Core Policy 13); the National Planning Policy Framework (section 15); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

Restoration and Aftercare

50. The Site shall be progressively restored to heathland I acid grassland mosaic, agricultural land and broadleaved native woodland in accordance with the approved 'Restoration Masterplan' (dwg no. H110/00013 Rev C) unless otherwise agreed following the review of the Restoration Masterplan required by Conditions 51 and 52 below.

51. Within 12 months of the date of this permission, a first review of the approved Restoration Masterplan referred to in Condition 52 shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority. A second review of the approved

Page 13of19


Restoration Masterplan shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority 3 years, 5 years and 7 years after the date of this permission or until such time as the Mineral Planning Authority confirms in writing that no further review is necessary.

52. No later than 12 months of the date of this permission, a detailed Restoration and 5-year Aftercare Scheme ('the Scheme') shall be submitted for the written approval of the Mineral Planning Authority.

The Scheme shall include but may not be limited to the following details:

a) The proposed final restoration contours, gradients and levels;

b) The method of soil and soil-making materials replacement and treatment;

c) Full details of habitat restoration and establishment details including plant species, percentage mixes, planting densities, plant protection and replacement;

d) The cultivation and management of the Site to achieve its restoration to heathland I acid grassland mosaic, agricultural land and broadleaved native woodland;

e) The management of weeds and invasive species;

f) The appropriate measures to minimise damage in the event of drought or fire;

g) The management techniques during the aftercare period for the heathland I acid grassland mosaic areas which shall include the provision for replacement of failures of individual trees, shrubs and plant species to secure an 85% survival rate at the end of the aftercare period;

h) The arrangements for annual meetings and annual reports describing the aftercare measures in the previous year, including comments on the successes and failures and plans for the aftercare forthcoming year; and,

i) The phased programme for the implementation of the Scheme.

The Scheme shall be carried out in full in each phase of the development following the completion of the restoration in each phase in accordance with the approved phased programme of implementation (Condition (52 (i)).

Reasons (50 and 52): To secure the restoration and aftercare of the Site at the earliest opportunity to high environmental standards in accordance with the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); and the National Planning Policv Framework (sections 15 and 17). Also to comply with the requirements of Schedule 5 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 which requires that every permission for the winning and working of minerals shall have a 'restoration condition' as to steps necessary to bring the land back to the required standard and shall have an 'aftercare condition' as to steps necessary over a 5 year period to bring the land back to the required standard.

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Record Keeping


53. The following records shall be retained and shall be provided to the Mineral Planning Authority within 7 days of a request being made except where a lesser time period is specified by the relevant condition or approved details. In making a request, the Mineral Planning Authority shall specify the dates between which the following records shall be provided:

a) The date and time of all HCVs entering and leaving the Site (Condition 17);

b) The operating hours (Condition 17);

c) The date and times of any emergency operations (Condition 17);

d) The date and times of any temporary operations (Condition 17 (c));

e) The noise monitoring results (Condition 29); and,

f) Any complaints received, and the steps taken to investigate and address them.

Reasons: To enable the Mineral Planning Authority to monitor operations, to check compliance with this permission, to ensure that the Site operates to high environmental standards, all in the interests of the environment and the amenity of local residents in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan policy 4); the National Planning Policy Framework (sections 12, 13, 15 and 17); and, Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

IN FORMATIVES

1. The County Council's Rights of Way Team advised as follows:

The applicant is advised to contact the Rights of Way Team to discuss Public Bridleway No 18 Hints and to the other rights of way within the Site. Contact the Rights of Way Team at [email protected].

The County Council has not received any application under Section 53 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to add or modify the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way, which affects the land in question. It should be noted, however, that this does not preclude the possibility of the existence of a right of way at common law, or by virtue of a presumed dedication under Section 31 of the Highways Act 1980. It may, therefore, be necessary to make further local enquiries and seek legal advice in respect of any physically evident route affecting the land, or the apparent exercise of a right of way by members of the public.

Page 15of19


2. The Environment Agency advised as follows: -

Pollution Prevention: During construction the company should ensure that on site activities do not cause pollution . There should be no polluting emissions to air, land or water resulting from actions by the company or by its sub-contractors. Pollution prevention guidance is available on our website. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pollution-preventionfor-businesses

Permitting: Any de watering activities discharging to watercourse may require a permit from us. Further information on this can be found on the link below. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/water-discharge-and-groundwater-activitypermits-additional-guidance

3. Western Power Distribution advised as follows:

Western Power Distribution (WPD) Electricity I WPD Surf Telecom apparatus are near the site. The applicant should therefore be aware of the Western Power Distribution safe working practices, these are available from https://www.westernpower.co.uk/health-safety

4. Terms of the Section 106 Legal Agreement.

The applicant is reminded about the terms of the updated legal agreement, which include the following undertakings:

The existing undertakings (ref. L.02/09/805-808 MW):

a) No further implementation of existing planning permissions.

b) The extension of the 10-year aftercare scheme to this application site area.

c) 'Minerals Transport Plan' being submitted for approval.

The new undertakings:

d) To secure a Restoration Guarantee Bond by the operator responsible for the restoration of the Site being a member of the Mineral Products Association (or equivalent) and eligible to draw on their Restoration Guarantee Fund, or by arranging an equivalent financial guarantee.

e) To regularly review the Restoration Masterplan in consultation with the site liaison committee.

f) To establish a site liaison committee.

g) To secure the continuation of the hydrometric monitoring programme.

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5. Monitoring Visits - fees payable

Regulations that came into effect on 6 April 2006 provide for the payment of fees to Mineral and Waste Planning Authorities in England when they carry out monitoring visits to sites with mineral extraction and I or landfill permissions to help in ensuring that those permissions are monitored in accordance with good practice.

For more information and contact details visit the Regulation page on the Staffordshire Planning web site at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/planning

IMPORTANT NOTICES THAT AFFECTS YOUR PLANNING PERMISSION

This permission does not purport to convey any approval or consent which may be required under any enactment other than Section 57 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990 (as amended).

BACKGROUND TO THE DECISION

On 5 February 2016, the Planning Committee accepted the recommendation in a report to PERMIT the application by for Lafarge Tarmac Trading Ltd and Cemex UK for a north west extension; continued use of existing processing plant and site access onto Watling Street; comprehensive phased quarrying and restoration scheme for existing quarry and North West extension area as consolidation application at Hints Quarry, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth, subject to a Section 106 agreement. For details refer to the Planning Committee report and minutes.

As there was a delay in completing the Section 106 legal agreement (signed on 18 October 2018), it was necessary to assess whether or not there had been any material changes to the site and surroundings; the Development Plan; and, any other material planning policy considerations before the Decision Notice could be issued. The following matters were considered to be relevant:

• Mineral extraction and restoration has continued and restoration is on-going at the quarry (ref. L.13/03/805-808 MW).

• The Wiqqinton, Hopwas & Comberford Neighbourhood Plan (2015 - 2029) was made in December 2016. However, this plan relates to land which at its nearest point is approximately 400 metres to the northeast of the extension area .

• The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was updated in July 2018. Consideration was given to the NPPF when the application was determined, and the relevant guidance has not materially changed since then.

Page 17 of 19


It was therefore reasonable to conclude that there had been no material changes and the Decision Notice could be issued.

THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE)(ENGLAND) ORDER 2015

(PART 6, ARTICLE 35(2))

Statement of the Positive and Proactive steps taken

In accordance with the above, when dealing with planning applications, the government require local planning authorities to make a statement about how we have worked with the applicant in a positive and proactive manner based on seeking solutions to problems arising in relation to dealing with a planning application.

Staffordshire County Council endeavours to work positively and proactively in order to determine planning applications in an efficient and effective manner and in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development, as described in the National Planning Policy Framework.

The problems that arose and the solutions found in this case are briefly summarised below.

• The County Council's Environmental Advice Team concerns about the restoration scheme were addressed by the applicant who submitted a revised restoration master plan .

• The County Council Noise Engineer's concerns about the noise mitigation were addressed by the applicant who provided clarification concerning the operations.

• The draft conditions were agreed with the applicants.

NOTIFICATION FOR APPLICANTS

THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE)(ENGLAND) ORDER 2015

(PART 6, ARTICLE 35(3) AND SCHEDULE 5):

Appeals to the Secretary of State

If you are aggrieved by the decision of your local planning authority to refuse permission for the proposed development or to grant it subject to conditions, then you can appeal to the Secretary of State under section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

Page 18 of 19


If an enforcement notice is served relating to the same or substantially the same land and development as in your application and if you want to appeal against your local planning authority's decision on your application, then you must do so within:

• 28 days of the date of service of the enforcement notice, or,

• within 6 months of the date of this notice, whichever period expires earlier.

If you want to appeal against your local planning authority's decision then you must do so within 6 months of the date of this notice.*

Appeals must be made using a form which you can get from the Planning Inspectorate at Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN (Tel: 0303 444 5000) or online at www.planningportal.gov.uk/planning/appeals/online/makeanappeal

The Secretary of State can allow a longer period for giving notice of an appeal but will not normally be prepared to use this power unless there are special circumstances which excuse the delay in giving notice of appeal.

The Secretary of State need not consider an appeal if it seems to the Secretary of State that the local planning authority could not have granted planning permission for the proposed development or could not have granted it without the conditions they imposed, having regard to the statutory requirements, to the provisions of any development order and to any directions given under a development order.

Please note, only the applicant possesses the right of appeal.

APPROVED APPLICATION DOCUMENTS AND PLANS

Please note that we no longer return stamped approved copies of the submitted application documents and plans with the decision notice. Instead we will specify the approved documents and plans in the decision notice. We will also publish copies of the approved documents and plans on our Staffordshire Planning web site www.staffordshire.gov.uk/planning ('Applications Register').

Dated this 22nd day of October 2018

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39

APPENDIX 2

Noise report prepared by SLR Consulting

dated April 2019

HGV NOISE ASSESSMENT

Hints Quarry

Prepared for: Tarmac Trading LimitedClient Ref: 05731

SLR Ref: 422.05731.00101

Version No:1

April 2019

Tarmac Trading Limited

Hints Quarry – HGV Noise Assessment

Filename: 190411_422_05731_00101 Hints Quarry HGV Noise

SLR Ref No:422.05731.00101

April 2019

.

BASIS OF REPORT

This document has been prepared by SLR Consulting Limited with reasonable skill, care and diligence, and taking account of the

manpower, timescales and resources devoted to it by agreement with Tarmac Trading Limited (the Client) as part or all of the services

it has been appointed by the Client to carry out. It is subject to the terms and conditions of that appointment.

SLR shall not be liable for the use of or reliance on any information, advice, recommendations and opinions in this document for any

purpose by any person other than the Client. Reliance may be granted to a third party only in the event that SLR and the third party

have executed a reliance agreement or collateral warranty.

Information reported herein may be based on the interpretation of public domain data collected by SLR, and/or information supplied

by the Client and/or its other advisors and associates. These data have been accepted in good faith as being accurate and valid.

The copyright and intellectual property in all drawings, reports, specifications, bills of quantities, calculations and other information set

out in this report remain vested in SLR unless the terms of appointment state otherwise.

This document may contain information of a specialised and/or highly technical nature and the Client is advised to seek clarification on

any elements which may be unclear to it.

Information, advice, recommendations and opinions in this document should only be relied upon in the context of the whole document

and any documents referenced explicitly herein and should then only be used within the context of the appointment.




SLR Ref No:422.05731.00101

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 4

PLANNING CONDITIONS .................................................................................................. 5

NOISE MONITORING ........................................................................................................ 7

ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................................. 11

CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................. 13

DOCUMENT REFERENCES

APPENDICES

Appendix 01: Glossary of Terminology




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Introduction

Tarmac Trading Limited (Tarmac) has instructed SLR Consulting Limited (SLR) to undertake a noise assessment of

HGV movements at Hints Quarry, Tamworth.

The assessment is to support a planning application to vary planning conditions to enable an increase to the

current allowable tonnage that can be exported from site which would result in additional HGV movements at

Hints Quarry. It is also proposed to extend the hours of HGV’s movements to match that of the allowed

processing hours on site.

The assessment is based on the results of noise compliance monitoring undertaken at the nearby noise-sensitive

receptors during a recent period of soil stripping.

Whilst effort has been made to ensure that this report is easy to understand, it is technical in nature; to assist

the reader, a glossary of terminology is included in Appendix 01.




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Planning Conditions

The site received planning permission on the 22nd October 2018 which contained a number of conditions relevant

to this application. Condition 17 relates to the operating hours of the site, whilst Conditions 19 and 20 relate to

the amount of sand and gravel that can be exported and the maximum number of HGV movements. The

conditions are quoted below for reference.

“17. No operations shall be carried out, with the exception of emergency operations, site security, environmental

monitoring or water pumping operations, other than within the periods stated between:


• 0700 to 1900 Mondays to Fridays; and,

• 0700 to 1300 on Saturdays.


• 0600 to 2200 hours Mondays to Fridays; and,


c) No temporary operations comprising soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds, restoration

and aftercare shall be carried out within the Site other than within the periods stated below:

• 0700 to 1900 Mondays to Fridays; and,



Reasons: To protect the amenity of local residents and to ensure the orderly operation of the Site in this Green

Belt location in accordance with: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Minerals Local Plan (policy 4); Lichfield

District Local Plan Strategy (policy BE1); the National Planning Policy Framework (Sections 9, 15 and 17) and,

Planning Practice Guidance (Minerals - assessing environmental impacts from minerals extraction).

19. No more than 700,000 tonnes of sand and gravel shall be exported from the Site per annum.

20. The number of HCV movements to and from the Site shall not exceed:

a) a maximum of 350 movements per full working day (175 in and 175 out); and,

b) an average of 254 movements per full working day (127 in and 127 out) when calculated over a 12-month

period commencing from the date of this permission.”

It should be noted that whilst in reality overall the number of HGV movements would increase, the maximum

number per day of 350 (as per Condition 20) would remain unchanged.

Conditions 26 and 27 are also of interest as they detail the noise limits for the site during specific time periods

and operations. The conditions are quoted below for reference.

“26. No operations, with the exception of soil stripping, placement, construction and removal of bunds,

restoration operations, shall take place between the hours of 0700 – 1900 that would result in site attributable

noise levels above those specified below, at any of the noise sensitive locations listed.

1 hour LAeq

a) Adjacent to Common Barn 54 dB

b) Adjacent to Woodside Stables 55 dB




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1 hour LAeq

c) Adjacent to Keepers Cottage 50 dB

d) Adjacent to Rock Hill 55 dB

e) Adjacent to Bucks Head Cottage 55 dB

27. No working operations shall take place between the hours of 0600 – 0700 and 1900 - 2200 hours that would

result in site attributable noise levels above those specified below, at any of the noise sensitive locations listed.

1 hour LAeq

a) Adjacent to Common Barn 54 dB

b) Adjacent to Woodside Stables 54 dB

c) Adjacent to Keepers Cottage 48 dB

d) Adjacent to Rock Hill 55 dB

e) Adjacent to Bucks Head Cottage 55 dB




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Noise Monitoring

Daytime noise levels were measured on Monday 10th December 2018 to determine compliance with the noise

limit associated with Soil Stripping. The results of the monitoring at Rock Hill have been considered relevant to

the impact of HGV movements as this is the closest monitoring point to the site access.

Weather conditions during all of the survey periods were suitable for environmental noise measurement, being

dry and overcast with no measurable wind.

The equipment used during the survey is set out in Table 3-1 below.

Table 3-1

Noise Measurement Equipment

Location Equipment Serial Number

Adjacent to Rock Hill Cirrus CR:171B Type 1 Sound Level Meter G061094

Cirrus CR:515 Acoustic Calibrator 72210

The sound level meters were calibrated before and after the measurement periods and no significant drifts in

calibration were found to have occurred. All the noise monitoring equipment had been calibrated to a traceable

standard by UKAS-accredited laboratories within the 24-months preceding the survey.

The microphone was placed 1.5m above the ground in free-field conditions, i.e. at least 3.5m from the nearest

vertical, reflecting surface. The LAeq dB; LA90 dB; LA10 dB; and LAmax dB noise parameters were recorded.

Noise levels were measured over sample periods of no less than 15-minutes during the daytime, with sufficient

periods accumulated to cover a 1-hour period. The results are presented in Table 3-2 below.

Table 3-2

Summary of Measured Noise Levels – Free-field dB

Location Period LAeq,T LA90 LA10 LAmax,F

Adjacent to Rock Hill Daytime 58.9 55.4 59.8 85.7

The results have been compared to the noise maps produced under the requirements of the Environmental Noise

Directive (Directive 2002/49/EC) and the Environmental Noise (England) Regulations 2006 (as amended). The

daytime map is presented in Figure 3-1. The figure also indicates the approximate location of the monitoring. It

should be noted that the area falls outside any of the Agglomerations for which the mapping was required but

the A5 is considered a Major Road so the results give some indication of noise levels in the area.

The predicted level of in the vicinity of the Rock Hill noise monitoring position is between 55-59.9dB LAeq,16hr. This

is based solely on the contribution from the A5 (as noted above), with the contribution from Rock Hill not being

included in the predictions. It is therefore considered that the noise model slightly underpredicts the noise levels

in the area and the results of the monitoring indicate it is closer to the top of the noise contour band.

The results of the night-time period are presented in Figure 3-2. The map shows properties on Rock Hill to be

just outside the 50-54.9dB LAeq, 8hr contour. As previously stated, this is predicted solely on the contribution from

the A5, with the contribution from Rock Hill not being included in the predictions. The predicted daytime noise

levels are adjudged to be approximately 5dB below the actual noise levels and therefore it is therefore




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considered reasonable to assume that noise levels during the night-time period would be in excess of 50dB

LAeq,8hr.




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Figure 3-1

Daytime (07:00 – 23:00) Noise Map, dB LAeq,16hr

Monitoring location




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Figure 3-2

Night-time (23:00 – 07:00) Noise Map, dB LAeq,8hr




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Assessment

The current permission allows for a maximum of 350 movements (175 in/175 out) per day. The proposed

increase in HGV movements does not impact on this maximum level but instead seeks to increase the average

number of movements from 254 per day (127 in/127 out).

Over a 12-hour day (07:00-19:00) this equates to an average of 30 movements per hour. Considering a nominal

receptor at 10m from the road and a sound power level of 98dB for an HGV pass-by, this equates to a noise level

of 50.9dB LAeq, 1hr. The impact this would have on existing noise levels is presented in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1

Predicted Noise Levels

Period Existing Noise Level,

dB LAeq, T

Predicted HGV Noise

Level, dB LAeq, T

Resultant Noise

Level, dB LAeq, T

Change, dB

Daytime 58.9 50.9 59.5 +0.6

A change of less than 3dB is considered to have a ‘negligible’ long term impact when assessed in accordance with

Table 7-14 of the IEMA) ‘Guidelines for Environmental Noise Impact Assessment’ document. By the same

standard, an increase of less than 1dB is also considered to have a ‘negligible’ impact in the short term. Such a

small increase is unlikely to even be perceptible. Furthermore, it should be noted that this level of HGV

movements is currently allowed under the existing permission, although only as a maximum daily number. Based

on the above it is not considered a significant impact for the average daily flow to be increase to that of the

maximum.

Increasing the hours over which HGV movements can occur would reduce the number of HGV movements per

hour. Over a 16-hour day (06:00-22:00) this equates to an average of 22 movements per hour, with only one

single hour considered night-time (06:00-07:00).

The reduction in HGV movements per hour would result in a reduction of the hourly noise level of 1.3dB and

therefore equate to a noise level of 49.6dB LAeq, 1hr. The impact this would have on existing noise levels is

presented in Table 4-2. As per Section 3, it is assumed that the existing noise level from the night-time period is

in excess of 50dB and this is more than likely the case during the period 06:00 to 07:00 when road traffic flows

increase. However, for a worst-case assessment an existing noise level of 50dB has been assumed.

Table 4-2

Predicted Noise Levels

Period Existing Noise Level,

dB LAeq, T

Predicted HGV Noise

Level, dB LAeq, T

Overall Noise Level,

dB LAeq, T

Change, dB

Daytime 58.9 49.6 59.4 +0.5

Night-time 50.0 49.6 52.8 +2.8

A change of less than 3dB is considered to have a ‘negligible’ long term impact when assessed in accordance

with Table 7-14 of the IEMA) ‘Guidelines for Environmental Noise Impact Assessment’ document. It should also

be noted that noise limits from site attributable noise at Rock Hill is 55dB LAeq, 1hr throughout the whole period

of 06:00 to 22:00 as per conditions 26 and 27 of the planning permission.




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On the basis of the above, the proposed increase and extension to operating hours of HGV’s is not considered

to be a significant impact on noise levels or amenity to the area.




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Conclusion

SLR Consulting Limited has been instructed by Tarmac Trading Limited to undertake a noise assessment of HGV

movements at Hints Quarry, Tamworth.

The assessment is to support a planning application to vary planning conditions to enable an increase in the

current allowable tonnage that can be exported from site which would result in additional HGV movements at

Hints Quarry. It is also proposed to extend the hours of HGV’s movements to match that of the allowed

processing hours on site.

The results indicate that noise levels from increasing the average number of daily HGV movements to match the

currently permitted maximum daily HGV movements would not have a significant impact on noise levels in the

area.

Extending these movements over a longer period would also not have a significant impact on noise levels in the

area, including during the early morning period.

Furthermore, noise levels from HGV movements are below the current noise limits from site attributable noise

at Rock Hill (of 55dB LAeq,1hr) throughout the whole period of 06:00 to 22:00 as per conditions 26 and 27 of the

planning permission.




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APPENDIX 01

Glossary of Terminology




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In order to assist the understanding of acoustic terminology and the relative change in noise, the following

background information is provided.

The human ear can detect a very wide range of pressure fluctuations, which are perceived as sound. In order to

express these fluctuations in a manageable way, a logarithmic scale called the decibel (dB) scale is used. The dB

scale typically ranges from 0dB (the threshold of hearing) to over 120dB. An indication of the range of sound

levels commonly found in the environment is given in Table 01-1.

Table 01-1

Sound Levels Commonly Found in the Environment

Sound Level Location

0dB(A) Threshold of hearing

20 to 30dB(A) Quiet bedroom at night

30 to 40dB(A) Living room during the day

40 to 50dB(A) Typical office

50 to 60dB(A) Inside a car

60 to 70dB(A) Typical high street

70 to 90dB(A) Inside factory

100 to 110dB(A) Burglar alarm at 1m away

110 to 130dB(A) Jet aircraft on take off

140dB(A) Threshold of pain

Acoustic Terminology

dB (decibel) The scale on which sound pressure level is expressed. It is defined as 20 times the

logarithm of the ratio between the root-mean-square pressure of the sound field and a

reference pressure (2 x 10-5 Pa).

dB(A) A-weighted decibel. This is a measure of the overall level of sound across the audible

spectrum with a frequency weighting (i.e. A-weighting) to compensate for the varying

sensitivity of the human ear to sound at different frequencies.

LAeq LAeq is defined as the notional steady sound level which, over a stated period of time,

would contain the same amount of acoustical energy as the A-weighted fluctuating

sound measured over that same period.

LA10 & LA90 If a non-steady noise is to be described it is necessary to know both its level and the

degree of fluctuation. The Ln indices are used for this purpose and the term refers to the

level exceeded for n% of the time. Hence LA10 is the level exceeded for 10% of the time

and as such can be regarded as the ‘average maximum level’. Similarly, LA90 is the

‘average minimum level’ and is often used to describe the background noise. It is

common practice to use the LA10 index to describe traffic noise.

LAFmax LAFmax is the maximum A-weighted sound pressure level recorded over the period stated.

LAFmax is sometimes used in assessing environmental noise where occasional loud noise

occur, which may have little effect on the overall LAeq noise level but will still affect the

noise environment. Unless described otherwise, it is measured using the ‘fast’ sound

level meter response.

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Documents

TARMAC AND CEMEX UK