A proposed plan for future mineral development in West Sussex is being put before the public.
The draft Joint Minerals Local Plan has been written by West Sussex County Council and the South Downs National Park Authority.
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It sets out a vision for how minerals will be produced, supplied and transported in West Sussex until 2033.
Now both authorities want to know what people think about it.
A public consultation runs from Thursday, April 14 until Friday, June 17 and you can take part here.
Once agreed, it will provide the basis for making planning decisions about minerals-related development.
It will replace the previous Minerals Local Plan adopted in 2003.
The draft plan aims to protect the special character and environment of West Sussex.
At the same time, it will make sure there are enough minerals to support economic growth.
Activities such as quarrying, storage, processing and transportation have all been carefully considered.
The draft plan has allocated two sites to help meet the need for minerals in West Sussex.
These are:
• Ham Farm, near Steyning (soft sand); and
• An extension to West Hoathly Brickworks, West Hoathly (brick clay).
West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, John O’Brien, said: “This draft plan set out our vision to provide the right way forward for mineral production in West Sussex.
“We feel it safeguards resources, protects our environment and meets the need for minerals to support economic growth in future years.
“It will give residents, and the industry, greater certainty about where mineral development can take place in the county.”
He added: “We want to find out what communities, businesses and other stakeholders think and whether they agree our draft plan is realistic. “So please take the opportunity to comment and respond.”
South Downs National Park Authority’s Chief Executive, Trevor Beattie, said: “We’ve worked in close partnership with West Sussex County Council to develop a draft plan that recognises the importance of the National Park’s protected landscapes whilst meeting the local and national need for minerals.
“We hope that both communities and the industry will take the opportunity to look at and comment on our draft plan.”
Anyone wishing to take part can respond online or via paper forms.
To take part visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/mwdf
For more information, email mwdf@westsussex.gov.uk or call 01243 642118.
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