HC Deb 17 November 1971 vol 826 cc415-6
43. Mr. Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what policy he follows in considering planning appeals relating to permission for mineral workings in predominantly residential areas.

The Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Peter Walker)

I consider each case on its merits, in the light of the inspector's report.

Mr. Winterton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many people are suffering unhappiness and inconvenience and are incurring expense because of quarrying and the working of minerals in close proximity to private dwellings? What action does he advise these people to take?

Mr. Walker

I am well aware of that and of the problems in my hon. Friend's constituency. As a result of a meeting in my Department, a working party has been set up between the various local authorities to ensure that the conditions in planning consents are imposed from proper environmental considerations.

Mr. McGuire

Is the Secretary of State aware that the problem caused by allowing quarrying and workings near private and council house developments is largely that of lorries depositing muck and slurry on the roads? The Minister should consider stopping it getting on the roads in the first place.

Mr. Walker

There is a diversity of problems, such as noise and disturbance. Planning authorities are getting much better at imposing very strict controls and conditions when giving planning consents.