www.wiltshire.gov.uk
Minerals Policy - frequently asked questions
Below are some of the questions the Minerals Local Plan team are asked most frequently.
What is the Minerals Local Plan?
The current adopted Wiltshire and Swindon Minerals Local Plan provides a framework for planning decisions to be made on all minerals currently worked in the Plan Area, along with proposals for preferred areas for future minerals development sites. Minerals worked in the area include sand and gravel, chalk, clay, building stone and crushed rock, but it also covers other forms of minerals development such as rail-aggregate depots, minerals processing and manufacturing plant and possible future exploration of hydrocarbons.
Under the new planning system (as set out in the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004) the Minerals Local Plan will be replaced with Minerals Local Development Documents that in turn, will form part of the Minerals and Waste Development Framework for Wiltshire and Swindon.
What do you mean by ‘minerals'?
The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 states that for the purposes of the planning system, minerals are defined as including "all minerals and substances in or under land of a kind ordinarily worked for removal by underground or surface working, except that is does not include peat cut for purposes other than sale."
What stage is the Minerals Local Plan currently at?
The Wiltshire and Swindon Minerals Local Plan was adopted in November 2001. It is currently under a period of review. Contact us for further information.
Who is responsible for granting planning permissions?
The County Council has a responsibility to process and determine planning applications for minerals and waste developments. The appropriate District or Borough Council is responsible for granting planning permission and advice for house alterations, building extensions, conservatories, garages or a new house.
What is ‘aggregate'?
Sand, gravel, crushed rock and other bulk materials which are suitable for use in the construction industry as concrete, mortar, finishes, or roadstone, or for use as constructional fill or railway ballast.
What is the ‘Mineral Planning Authority' (MPA)?
The Local Planning Authority responsible for overseeing all planning aspects of mineral operations. For the County of Wiltshire and the Borough of Swindon, it is the respective County and Borough Councils.
For further information, please contact us.
Contact Details
By Post
Local Plans and Development Control
Wiltshire County Council
County Hall
Bythesea Road
Trowbridge
Wiltshire
BA14 8JD
By Email
mineralsandwastepolicy@wiltshire.gov.uk
By Telephone
01225 713213
By Fax
01225 713437
By Hand
County Hall, Trowbridge
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
