The Mineral Products Association, the trade body representing 90% of aggregate production, reports that sand and gravel figures for the first quarter of 2013 were down 12% on the same quarter of 2012, itself down 12% on 2011. Sand and gravel figures for 2012 as a whole were also down 12% on 2011. DCC expects to report Devon's sand and gravel production figures for 2012 shortly.
Straitgate Farm near Ottery St Mary in Devon was bought in 1965 in the hope it would yield 20 million tonnes of sand & gravel. Straitgate Action Group was formed in 2001 to oppose a quarry due to concerns over water supplies, ancient woodlands, protected species, road safety and more. After finally gaining permission for just 1 million tonnes on appeal, Holcim UK – formerly Aggregate Industries – abandoned its plans in 2025. This blog records the long path to victory.