214669
The proposed development will consist of the lateral extension of the Classis South Quarry (planning references 03/4253, PL04.205925 and 14/4728) for the extraction of sand and gravel (aggregate) within a ca. 15.049 ha application area. The extraction area will extend to ca. 8 ha and to a maximum depth of 13 mOD (ca. 8.6 metres below the winter water table). The aggregate will be transported by a proposed on-site temporary conveyor to the existing, authorised fixed conveyor (permission 19/4530). An initial construction phase of up to 12 weeks will include the stripping of topsoil, installation of on-site temporary welfare facilities (port-a-loo ca. 6m2 by 2.3m), two concrete parking plinths (ca. 56m2 and 36m2), concrete refuelling plinth (ca.80m2) and associated interceptor and drainage, and installation of an access road to connect the existing Classis South Quarry to the proposed extension ca.101 m long by ca. 5 m wide incorporating a culvert (ca. 4 m in height), installation of screening embankments to a height of 3.1 m, installation of fencing and all associated site works. The operational phase of up to 7 years duration will include extraction and then transport of aggregate via conveyor. The proposed development will include a rehabilitation phase of up to 2 years duration to form a water body, united with the existing Classis South Quarry water body. An Environmental Impact Assessment report and Natura Impact Statement will be submitted with the planning application.
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended a grant of permission, concluding that the lateral extension of the existing quarry is consistent with the Cork County Development Plan 2022, is acceptable in terms of traffic safety due to the use of a conveyor system, and will not significantly injure the visual or residential amenities of the area provided specific mitigation measures, such as a 70m buffer and screening berms, are implemented.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The principle of the development is considered acceptable as it constitutes a lateral extension of an established quarrying operation, supporting the rural economy and utilizing a sustainable conveyor-based transport method that avoids HGV traffic on local roads.
- Residential amenities can be protected through the imposition of a 70m buffer zone between the extraction area and third-party properties, alongside the construction of 3.1m high planted screening berms to mitigate noise, dust, and visual impacts.
- The proposal is in general compliance with national, regional, and local policies regarding the safeguarding of mineral reserves and, following Appropriate Assessment, it was determined that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of Natura 2000 sites.