Hampshire County Council’s Minerals and Waste Plan to be Examined in February
Hearings for Hampshire’s minerals and waste plan will start on February 4, focusing on key sites in New Milton and surrounding areas
Hampshire, New Milton, Ringwood, Fordingbridge, Minerals, Waste Plan
New Milton: So, the hearings for Hampshire County Council’s minerals and waste plan are set to kick off on February 4. This plan is all about figuring out where future quarry sites will be, especially around New Milton and nearby areas.
The council’s plan aims to ensure there’s enough minerals for the county’s needs and to manage waste that can’t be recycled. It’s a big deal because it stretches all the way to 2040!
Some of the proposed sites include Ashley Manor Farm in New Milton, Purple Haze near Ringwood, and Midgham Farm close to Fordingbridge. But not everyone is on board with this plan. Many locals are worried about how these sites might impact their health and the environment.
Back in November, New Milton Sand & Ballast got the green light to extract gravel from Ashley Manor Farm, even with over 300 objections from residents. The committee chair even apologized to the campaigners, saying they felt pressured to approve it to avoid losing an appeal.
The hearings will be pretty informal, led by an inspector who will guide discussions on specific topics. It won’t be like a public inquiry, so no formal presentations or cross-examinations will happen.
Only those who previously commented on the plan can join in the discussions. The inspector has made it clear that only those involved in the talks should attend the sessions.