Quarry condition changes at Llecheiddior Uchaf, Garndolbenmaen

What was proposed

The application sought longer quarry operations, higher annual output, restoration using suitable imported materials, and final restoration by 2031.

“Proposal: Application under Section 73 to vary conditions 2, 5 and 37 of planning permission reference C12/0495/36/MW so as to extend the period for the winning and working of mineral up to 31/12/2030 and restoration of the site by 31/12/2031, increase annual output of material from the site to 100,000 tonnes at an average rate of 14 loads per day and use mate- rial that has not derived from the operations permitted on site as part of the restoration plan.”

“This is an application under Section 73 of the Planning Act 1990 to vary conditions 2, 5 and 37 of planning permission reference C12/0495/36/MW. The proposed amendments are for extending the period for the winning and working of mineral up to 31/12/2030 and restoration of the site by 31/12/2031 (Condition 2), increase annual output of material from the site to 100,000 tonnes at an average of 14 loads per day (Condition 5) and use material that has not derived from…”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The site is a sand and gravel quarry on four land parcels near Bryncir, with extraction material processed at a nearby quarry.

“The application site is a sand and gravel quarry located on 4 parcels of land around Llecheiddior Uchaf to the east of the village of Bryncir. Access to the site for vehicles associated with the extractive operations is gained along an unclassified public highway that leads from Bryncir to Llecheiddior Uchaf.”

“The mineral is not worked on site; this is done at Bryncir Quarry (located approximately 700m away by road) and is subject to a separate planning permission and conditions (C09D/0375/36/LL).”

Officer report

Planning history and enforcement

Earlier permissions established quarrying and restoration, while an investigation concerns unauthorised waste deposited in a later extraction phase.

“Relevant Planning History: • G23/0156: Phase 3 of the mineral extraction area subject to ongoing joint enforcement investigation by the Mineral Planning Authority and Natural Resources Wales to the unauthorised disposal of inert waste material. • C23/0522/36/LL ‘Application for a vertical extension of existing sand and gravel pit, partial backfilling and site restoration to agriculture’ – Application withdrawn.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the changes acceptable because mineral supplies would be maintained without significant additional landscape, environmental, amenity or highway impacts.

“This application seeks to prolong the operational lifespan of the development and amend the wording of condition 37 so as to allow importation of material for restoration purposes. While extending the operational period would naturally prolong associated visual impacts in the medium term, the site forms part of an established mineral working. Within this context, it is not considered that the proposal would give rise to any significant additional visual effects.”

“Given the existing quarry footprint, the landscape and visual effects associated with the continued operation remain limited. Extending the timescale of the development and alterations to allow for limited importation of soils or soil‑forming materials and mineral wastes derived from site would not introduce any significant changes in this regard.”

Officer report

What consultees said

The community council requested dust controls and regular road cleaning, while highways and environmental consultees raised no objection or made advice available.

“Community Council: Response received on 04/11/2022: The Community Council met last night, and the following application was discussed: C22/0977/36/AC: No objection is provided as long strict conditions are attached to planning permission to control dust that is left on the road/pavement/windows and doors of houses in Bryncir.”

“I note that the excavation appears to run parallel to the highway. I would ask that you provide illustrative cross sections to confirm the location and profile of the excavations in relation to the highway to demonstrate there will be no impact. Having undertaken a site visit it was noted that the condition of the access road is deteriorating.”

Officer report

Who addressed the committee

The senior planning officer presented the case, and the local member’s concerns about residents, vehicles, dust and continued impacts were shared.

The committee’s decision

The committee delegated approval subject to conditions, including revised quarry deadlines, output limits, environmental controls, covered lorries and a road-maintenance agreement note.

“The extraction of mineral waste and ancillary operations shall cease by 31/12/2030. Restoration of the site by 31/12/2031. In accordance with the approved plans. Maintenance of access road. No more than 100,000 tonnes of material per annum shall be removed from site at an average rate of no more than 14 loads per day. Shrub and tree planting prior to extraction in Phase 4. Maintenance of shrubs and trees planted (con 5). 7.”

“Note: Ensure a road conditions maintenance agreement…”

Minutes