The current quarry operations are focused on hard rock extraction, for which planning consent was due to expire in 2015. A review of the remaining reserves showed sufficient hard rock remained for quarry operations to continue for 8-10 years. A decision was therefore made to seek planning permission for the quarry to remain in operation until 2022.
In order to secure a consent, it was necessary to prepare a detailed planning application. Early engagement with Argyll & Bute Council planning department ensured all planning issues were identified.
A key issue with minerals planning applications is the method of reinstatement of the quarry once extraction ceases. As part of previous planning applications, CKD Galbraith had prepared a full restoration plan, demonstrating how the land occupied by the quarry would be reinstated to form a natural habitat. In the course of preparing a revised application, it was necessary to revise this plan, providing an updated timeline for the reinstatement of the quarry and showing areas where reinstatement works had already been carried out.
CKD Galbraith used in house GIS programmes to create detailed planting maps of the existing quarry, collaborating with our forestry team to identify specific species for planting in each area. In addition, the cost of these works was estimated, again with input from the CKD Galbraith forestry team, in order to ensure a restoration fund of suitable value could be set aside.
Following submission of the planning application by CKD Galbraith, and extensive discussions with Argyll & Bute Council planning department, planning consent was secured for continued use of the quarry until 2022. As a result, the business can continue in its current location until this date, when it is anticipated the hard rock reserved will finally be exhausted.