Environmental

We aim to minimise the impact of our activities on the local community and environment. Fortunately, as the proposed extraction of the remaining sand deposits would take place entirely within the base of the quarry, no undisturbed land would be affected. Furthermore, the operational methods, including working hours and the overall output of the quarry would remain the same.

The site already operates to a very stringent set of planning conditions designed to safeguard the environment and all measures required would continue to be implemented and monitored – including noise, dust and vibration. Compliance is ensured through regular audit by Durham County Council.

We have consulted with the Planning Authority and other statutory consultees and have agreed that the Environmental Impact Assessment should include:

• The water environment: Tarmac already monitor groundwater in around Thrislington Quarry and regularly submit results to the Environment Agency. However, as part of the extension proposals for extraction for the remaining block of sand we are completing a full hydrogeological impact assessment which will be reviewed by the Environment Agency and the Planning Authority.
• Traffic and transport: The continued extraction of sand will not give rise to any increase in output of sand from the existing vehicle access. However, a minor proportion of fine-grade limestone will be brought over from Cornforth Quarry to Thrislington Quarry along a 30m stretch of Stobbs Cross Lane for the production of Midas Sand. We are completing a traffic assessment to consider this.
• Climate change: As part of the latest Environmental Impact Assessment regulations and in recognition of the growing concern of the climate crisis we will also be completing an assessment of the impacts of our operation on climate change.
• Cumulative effects: Environmental Impact Assessment regulations also require the potential of cumulative effects to be considered. In this case, this will consider the continued working of sand in Thrislington Quarry and the extraction of limestone in the nearby Cornforth Quarry.