In May 2021, Hanson submitted planning applications to Somerset County Council to reopen and significantly expand the disused Westdown Quarry near Nunney in the Mendips, creating a new super quarry. The quarry is right next door to the ancient Asham Wood- a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The plans also include dumping oolite waste into the old Asham quarry, burying decades of natural regeneration.

A new super quarry at Westdown will be a massive industrial project. The expansion will threaten wildlife, increase HGV traffic, noise and dust, all at a time of climate emergency. With four other quarries nearby, including Whatley and Torr super quarries, two approved quarry planning applications and two more applications in the pipeline, the cumulative effects on local people will be huge. Find more details  here The good news is it’s not too late to stop this: Hanson’s applications have been delayed and are still to go to Somerset County Council’s Regulation Committee for determination.

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