Controversial plans to extend a quarry by removing nearly 0.45 million tonnes of sand and gravel was agreed by the planning committee.
The plans to extend Hatfield Quarry, in Oaklands Lane, St Albans, was discussed on Monday night by St Albans planning committee who were only being consulted on the issue as it is Hertfordshire County Council who has authority over the application.
The district council recommend to Hertfordshire County Council that they have no objections to the proposed extension to the Hatfield Quarry site and that matters relating to highway capacity are referred to the Local Highway Authority for detailed consideration.
The district council has concerns regarding the impact on environment and ecology; and rights of way. The bridle paths will need to be reinstated and dedicated.
Furthermore the council has concerns that increased vehicular movements may have an impact on the environment.
The district council recommend to Hertfordshire County Council as the local planning authority that should planning permission be granted an informative is added to advise the applicant that any increase in vehicular movements will require a planning application.
The application looks at the retention of the quarry access road and site infrastructure facilities and it will restore the area to agricultural land and mixed habitats including wetlands, acid grassland and woodland planting.
The land was used as a film set location between 1996 and 2000 and featured in a number of films including Saving Private Ryan.
Since 2010 the land has been open to the public and is currently used for cattle. The majority of the quarry falls within the St Albans District.
Hertfordshire County Council has been approached for a comment on the decision.
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