Isle of Wight: Cheverton Quarry could expand its mining reach

Plans currently with Isle of Wight Council would see the quarry extended by around 3.2 hectares

A quarry that is running out of resources could be extended to increase its operational life by more than 20 years.

Cheverton Quarry, off Bowcombe Road, on the Isle of Wight, is predicted to have two years of chalk, gravel and sand left to be mined.

The space, operated by JMC Materials, provides minerals for businesses on the island.

Plans submitted to the council would see it extended by around 3.2 hectares.

The new land that could be mined is already part of the quarry's boundary and is fenced off and separated from the surrounding agricultural fields.

Planning agents BCM, working on behalf JMC Materials, said operations on the site would remain the same if it is extended.

It added that the changes would be expected to yield about 35,000 tonnes of mineral resources a year over a 20-year period.

Access to the site would still be from Bowcombe Road, near to Cheverton Farm

People can view the plans and submit comments to Isle of Wight Council until 9 February.

Cheverton Quarry extension plan submitted by BCM on behalf of JMC Materials who operate the space

Of the material at the site, 28% is too fine to be used and will be retained for restoration purposes.The other 72% is used for ready-mix concrete, cement and gravel depending on its size.

The work at the quarry can only take place when it is dry, which equates to around 60 to 80 days a year between March and September.

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