Issue - meetings

Purpose: To present the final Minerals and Waste Local Plan and seek approval for its adoption.

The Council considered a report (Agenda Item 17) which presented the final Minerals and Waste Local Plan and sought approval for its adoption.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Richard Somner and seconded by Councillor Graham Pask:

“That Council approves the West Berkshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan (Adoption Version) for adoption pursuant to section 23 (3) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004”.

Councillor Somner introduced the report and reminded Members that the Minerals and Waste Local Plan had been presented to Council on two previous occasions, with the final version for adoption now being considered. He expressed his gratitude to officers for their continued work on developing the plan, responding to the consultation, and responding to the Inspectors comments. This would be the first West Berkshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan and it provided protection to communities against inappropriate development. Councillor Somner emphasised that this was an important strategic document and would ensure that mineral extraction development and waste management facilities were planned in the most sustainable way, with the least amount of negative effects on the environment and quality of life. He highlighted that a policy on fracking was included in the Plan but that it was not anticipated that fracking would occur in West Berkshire.

Councillor Alan Macro noted that this would replace a couple of Plans regarding minerals and waste that were adopted over thirty years ago. The Plan allocated two new mineral sites, one being just outside Chieveley within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Many years of gravel extraction had resulted in a large proportion of the Kennet Valley being turned into lakes, and Councillor Macro therefore welcomed that only one additional gravel site had been allocated in the Plan. He wished to note that West Berkshire would still be dependent on South Oxfordshire for soft sand, and to other authorities for the disposal of waste, which he felt could be a cause for concern in the future.

Councillor Steve Masters queried whether Councillor Somner, as a private individual, would join any members of the public in campaigning against fracking in West Berkshire should it be proposed for the district in the future.  

Councillor Hilary Cole expressed her delight that the Plan had come to a successful conclusion following a lengthy and difficult process. She believed that, with regards to sand and gravel extraction, the industry should be encouraged to consider alternative construction methods given that it was a finite resource.  

Councillor Tony Vickers endorsed the comments made by Councillor Hilary Cole and indicated his support for prefabricated offsite building. 

Councillor Graham Pask believed there was general agreement that a minimal amount of mineral extraction should occur, and that such items should be recycled as much as possible. He also wished to extend his thanks to officers, and endorsed the Plan to Members for approval.

Councillor Somner concluded the debate by recommending that Council approve the adoption of the Plan.

The Motion was put to the vote and duly RESOLVED.