...the mineral has been variable in quantity and quality and the amount remaining may be considerably less than estimated.Market demand has also fluctuated due to the Covid-19 pandemic and issues with the quality of the mineral in certain places has resulted in the site not being worked in accordance with the phasing plans and has taken longer to extract.Too small grain size and thick pockets of clay along with no sand in areas has added to the situation.Production has also been delayed due to flooding and phases could not be followed which has also impacted upon the phased restoration
The above concerns a site in Cheshire.
But who’s to say it couldn’t happen at Straitgate Farm? After all, Aggregate Industries failed to produce what was promised at Marshbroadmoor, Venn Ottery, Houndaller and Chard Junction:
the sand and gravel reserves were found to be significantly shallower than anticipated
Quarrying for sand and gravel is an uncertain business. At least, the benefit is uncertain; the harm to the landscape would not be.
