Further representations made on behalf of CEMEX UK Materials Ltd.

Proposed Minerals Extraction Sites

MIN 92: The Company does not agree with the initial conclusions of the Minerals Planning Authority regards this site, land east of Ferry Lane, Heckingham.

The proposed site abuts the boundary of the Broads Authority Executive Area to the north, south and west, albeit separated by a minor road in all bar the latter. It is noted, however, that the Broads Authority concluded that the extant permitted quarry immediately to the east would have a "negligible" impact on the character of the Broads. The statement that "... more open views from the road to the west..." is not supported by evidence 'in the field' as it is apparent that a significant body of existing trees sever all visibility of the site from the Broads area. It has been acknowledged that to the south the site is more open, but it is proposed that the area between the power cables and Beacon Farm be subject to an advanced planting programme. This would have the benefits of mimicking the tree screen to the north and west, screening Beacon Farm from the proposed development, and linking existing woodland to woodland areas planted by the Company in the course of implementing extant planning permissions. Given that the reserves within the proposed site are not likely to be required for at least 11 years there is ample time for any advanced planting to be undertaken and mature so as to be effective. Furthermore, there are no publicly accessible viewpoints to the south of the site until the Norton Road, from which only the most fleeting views of the site are available due to intervening vegetation, topography and buildings.
It is acknowledged that the site is bisected on an east to west axis by a row of mature trees, possibly remnants of a removed hedgerow. None of the trees in question appear to be the subject of Tree Preservation Orders. It is the Company's view that this site can be worked for sand and gravel economically with these trees being retained whilst not being materially affected by that working. Conversely, it is considered premature to take the view that the felling of these trees would constitute an "...unacceptable landscape impact..." in the absence of mitigation measures or an assessment of the condition of the trees themselves. As discussed above, the Company would propose as part of any development programme to implement an extensive advanced tree planting scheme along the site's southern boundary. As part of any proposed restoration it is quite possible that the original field boundaries, dividing the site into quarters, could be reinstated. It is also possible that these trees may not be in a condition that would secure their long term retention. It is the Company's view that the site should be identified as a Specific Site for minerals extraction and that it will be for an applicant to demonstrate that these matters of acknowledged significance can be adequately mitigated. The site is suitable for minerals extraction in principle and should be identified as such in the draft Plan.