We have previously posted about this planning application, DCC/4132/2019, most recently here. The application sought "to continue importation of inert soils and subsoil to allow for revised restoration contours at Marshbroadmoor including a revised restoration scheme at Rockbeare Quarry", and proposed "a reduction in end date for the restoration of the Rockbeare site to the 31 December 2028".
On 23 December 2019, Devon County Council approved the application with conditions – including on airport safeguarding.
The officer’s report reminds us that "Rockbeare Quarry has been the subject of a number of planning permissions to work sand and gravel dating from a 1947 IDO permission."
Aggregate Industries' consultants have previously been at pains to remind us, including in documents to support the application:
The effects associated with the operational development will generally be considered to be temporary in nature, mineral development and restoration representing a temporary use of the land.
Which may be so, but 1947 to 2028 is for many people a lifetime. If restoration brings any benefits, don't expect to be alive to see them.
Another example of that temporary use of the land can be seen at Pinhoe Quarry where:
Exeter City Council’s planning committee backed officer recommendations to approve the details of 380 new homes
Outline consent had been granted in 2012, and extensive earthworks followed. By last year:
It is hoped the first homes will be ready to move into during December 2020 with the whole development expected to take around eight years to complete.
Pinhoe Quarry had an even longer history than Rockbeare:
Clay extraction for the use of brick making is recorded as taking place at the site since 1905, with planning permissions for Pinhoe Quarry granted in 1947 and 1969... The clay extracted from the site was used in the production of bricks at the works opposite the quarry. Both the brickworks and quarry operations ceased in 2006.
