Approval of quarry 'travesty' for local community

Gavin Grant said he was disappointed by the decision to approve a quarry

Campaigners say the decision to approve a new quarry is a "travesty" for the local community.

Wiltshire firm Earthline has been given permission to quarry 470,000 tonnes of aggregate over eight years from Wheatleys Farm in Ashton Keynes.

The parish councils of Ashton Keynes, South Cerney, and Leigh had objected to the proposal, and 249 letters of objection and concern had been received, along with a petition of 88 names opposing the plans. Councillor Gavin Grant said the result was "desperately disappointing".

Earthline said it was "simply continuing the tradition of gravel quarrying in the area".

Residents are worried the quarry will change their picturesque village

Earthline was given permission to establish the quarry by Planning Inspector Melvyn Middleton after planning permission was denied by Wiltshire Council in 2024.

Mr Grant said that the project will "essentially create a giant landfill site" and increase flooding risks in the area.

"Wiltshire Council did not stand by the community and left the residents high and dry, trying to fight a big corporation," Mr Grant added.

"The community has been badly let down. It's done and dusted, it's the end of the road.

"This was a travesty."

The area next to the proposed site frequently floods

The site is to the south of Ashton Keynes, with the B4696 bypass running along its western edge. To the east are the new housing estates of Heavens Rise and Maisey Mews.

Chuck Berry, Ashton Keynes parish councillor, said it was "never great to lose a David vs Goliath battle".

"The residents are still worrying about when it's going to happen and what exactly is going to happen and how long it will take," Mr Berry added.

"Also, what is left in the end?"

Mr Middleton considered that the quarry would meet the need for minerals for the construction of the New Eastern Villages at Swindon and new housing in Cirencester.

He added that he also considered flooding risks and pollution fears before drawing his conclusion.

Earthline said in a statement: "We're pleased we finally gained commission after nine years - it was a long, long process.

"It's a recognised gravel pit area, we're just continuing the historic tradition."