Protecting the Environment
Stonecastle Quarry
When the current planning permission for mineral extraction was granted at Stonecastle, the site was subject to an Environmental Assessment, covering amongst other matters noise, highways, ecology, archaeology, water and dust.
Since planning to reopen the quarry, we have undertaken a number of ecological surveys covering a wide range of species including badgers, bats, and dormice. These will be updated as necessary as we move forward with the working scheme.
One key aspect identified at the time of the planning application in 2000 was for advance planting to be carried out at a number of locations including Ottershaw, adjacent to the Medway, near the Hartlake Road and along the Hammer Dyke. Recent photographs included here demonstrate how well this planting has matured to provide screening and wildlife habitats.
Once sand and gravel extraction has been completed and the site will be restored to have a beneficial impact on the local landscape.
The Ottershaw planting
Additional Downloads:
Stonecastle Ecological Mitigation
Stonecastle Advanced Planting