Quarry gets permission to expand

Morville Quarry started operations in the 1950s

A quarry in the Shropshire countryside has been given permission to extend its operations, trebling its size.

Morville Quarry near Bridgnorth had been due to run out of deposits to dig at the end of this year, but will now continue working for another 20 years.

Members of Shropshire Council's Southern Planning Committee raised questions on Tuesday about the proximity to the planned Tasley Garden Village residential development and mud left on the roads by lorries.

However, the proposal was passed by the panel with just one abstention.

Shropshire Sand and Gravel will be allowed to quarry areas to the north and south of the existing site, which it said would help meet the county's need for mineral extraction as well as secure jobs.

At the end of the 20-year period, a further two years will be allowed to restore the site.

Progressive independent councillor Rachel Connolly, representing Bridgnorth West and Tasley, expressed concerns about the 1,500 home development nearby.

A planning officer replied that the proximity of the two sites had been taken into consideration as the Local Plan, overseeing major development sites, was drawn up.

She also told another committee member, Conservative Nigel Lumby, that conditions would be put in place to keep the junction of the access road clear of mud.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.