In 1965, Straitgate Farm near Ottery St Mary in Devon was bought by ECC Quarries in the hope it would yield 20 million tonnes of sand & gravel. In 2001, Straitgate Action Group was formed to oppose the development and its potential harm to water supplies, ancient wetland habitats, protected species and much more. In 2023, Aggregate Industries – owned by Swiss giant Holcim – was finally granted permission to quarry just 1 million tonnes following a public inquiry. This blog records the story.
On the first day of the Inquiry, the expert hydrogeologist acting on behalf of Devon County Council gave a presentation, which, for those with water supplies or an interest in the subject, we include below.
Devon County Council’s Planning Rebuttal, and Statement in respect of Reason for Refusal 3, can be found here and here.
