
The Stop Hanson Expansion at Westdown Quarry group
We are an umbrella campaign group made up of people who first came together in 2021 to challenge Hanson’s expansion at Westdown Quarry. We include the original Stop Westdown Quarry group.
From all walks of life, our ranks include parents, grandparents, residents, local businesses, doctors, nurses, community groups, naturalists, teachers, media professionals, farmers, care workers, shop workers, scientists and environmentalists, from the local community in the Mendips and the wider west of England.
Hanson's Plans
Westdown quarry has been disused for 40 years and adjoins the ancient Asham Woods in the Mendips – a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special area of Conservation.
In May 2021, Hanson submitted applications to Somerset County Council to update planning consents to reopen and expand the quarry onto 100 acres of farmland at Westdown Farm. The land has 160m tonnes of proven reserves. And to bury the 80 acres of natural regeneration over the past 40 years in Asham quarry.
The Environment Agency, Somerset Ecology Services, Natural England and Somerset Wildlife Trust have all submitted strong objections to the applications. In addition, objectors believe that the applicant has not provided the Council with adequate information such as properly conducted assessments and environmental studies to make an informed decision. The date at which the applications will be determined has been delayed accordingly.
You can view the planning applications here
