An independent Planning Inspector has confirmed that the Plan, as modified, is sound, legally compliant and suitable for adoption.
The Plan, which has been prepared in partnership with Hampshire’s four other Mineral and Waste Planning Authorities, will guide decisions on mineral extraction and waste management development across the area through to 2040.
The Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan sets the policies for determining planning applications for minerals and waste development. It aims to ensure that Hampshire continues to deliver essential infrastructure while safeguarding its natural landscapes, heritage and quality of life for residents. Without an up-to-date Plan, decisions could be made at appeal, meaning local concerns might not be fully considered.
The next stage is for the updated plan to be formally adopted by each of the Hampshire Mineral and Waste Plan authorities.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King, said: “Having an up-to-date Minerals and Waste Plan is essential to ensuring that Hampshire can continue to meet its need for vital building materials such as sand and gravel, as well as the facilities needed to deal with the waste we make, while protecting our environment and communities.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation process. Their feedback has helped to strengthen the Plan, which has now been independently assessed as sound. Cabinet will now consider recommending its adoption to Full Council, marking an important milestone for sustainable planning in Hampshire.”
Subject to Cabinet’s agreement, a recommendation will be made to Full Council to formally adopt the Plan.
The Cabinet report is available here.