Residents urged to have say on minerals and waste development plan

Ribble Valley residents are being urged to have their say on a plan which will be used to guide future decisions about minerals and waste development.

Lancashire County Council, Blackpool Council and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council are consulting on a revised joint Minerals and Waste Local Plan, which would cover the period to 2042.

Minerals planning is about making sure the community has enough of the materials needed, such as sand, gravel and stone. These materials are used to build homes, roads and other things, as well as in manufacturing. The work will ensure there’s suitable places where these materials can be taken from the ground.

Waste planning is about making sure the council has the right places and facilities to deal with waste produced – from household rubbish to waste from businesses and hazardous waste.

The plan brings existing minerals and waste planning policies up to date, and also aims to balance the need for minerals and waste infrastructure with strong protections for local communities and the environment.

The plan does not approve any specific development proposals. Any future proposals would still need to go through the normal planning process, including consultation with local communities.

Jonathan Edwards, Director of Environment and Regulatory, Lancashire County Council, said: "Having an up-to-date plan helps ensure decisions about minerals and waste development are based on clear policies and robust evidence. I would encourage residents, community groups and businesses to take part in the consultation and share their views."

The consultation runs from Monday, September 21st to Sunday, November 1st.

To read the plan and submit comments, visit lancashire.gov.uk/haveyoursay