HC Deb 02 February 1993 vol 218 c166W
Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what environmental impact assessment has been carried out of the proposal by Redland Aggregates for a super-quarry in South Harris; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stewart

[holding answer 21 January 1993]: As required by the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1988, an environmental assessment of the proposal accompanied the planning application by Redland Aggregates Ltd. to the Western Isles islands council. The matter is currently before the islands council, although my right hon. Friend issued a direction in September 1991 requiring the application to be referred to him should the council be minded to approve it. Because of my right hon. Friend's possible involvement in this matter at a later stage, I am unable to comment further.

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what planning policy guidance he has issued with regard to super-quarries and aggregate mining; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stewart

[holding answer 21 January 1993]: National planning guidelines on the working of aggregates in Scotland were issued in 1977. These guidelines, which are still extant, acknowledge the economic potential of coastal super-quarry developments and suggest that they would, in principle, be acceptable if damage to the environment is limited through careful choice of location and detailed site proposals. Following the commitment given in the Environment White Paper "This Common Inheritance" (Cm 1200) all planning guidance is now being reviewed. In July 1992 a draft national planning policy guideline (NPPG) entitled "Land for Mineral Working" was issued for consultation. This will supersede the 1977 guidelines later this year and will provide the context within which local authorities should prepare up to date development plan policies for mineral working, including super-quarries where appropriate, in full consultation with the local community, and with regard to the economic needs and environmental considerations of their area.