Restoration work at an Isle of Wight quarry that has involved tens of thousands of tonnes of fill material could press on for another 2 years.
Wight Building Materials is looking to vary a planning condition which would allow extra time to restore land near Hale Manor Farm, a site south of Arreton which was previously used for mineral extraction.
The firm was previously given permission for restoration using chemically inactive waste from Island building projects.
Good progress has been made at the site, but economic headwinds caused by rising interest rates and the cost of living continue to restrict the rate of work, according to a letter from the applicant’s agent, HOLCIM.
In that letter, it was said that:
“An already approved scheme to identify, control and monitor the environmental impacts of noise, dust and mud from the site will remain in place.
“Completing the approved restoration scheme will provide a positive contribution for biodiversity.”
A new expiry date of 22nd October 2028 has been proposed for the work despite County Hall having already extended the restoration by 3 years back in 2024.
Arreton Parish Council submitted a neutral response to the latest application.
Members of the public have until 4th December to comment on proposal 26/01445/RVC. After that, a decision will be expected on 18th January next year.
