Midgham quarry seeks extension

Marley Eternit, Bath Road, Midgham, was initially granted planning permission in 2002 for 10 years for the extraction of minerals and the deposit of waste on site.
Work began in 2007 and was due to be completed by 2012, however the firm is seeking an extension for a further year.
Agent for the firm Douglas Symes said that the need for an extension was owing to poor market conditions in the UK.
He said: “The application is to extend the completion dates to enable full recovery of the minerals, the delay being due to the reduced demand as a consequence of the UK economy.”
He added that the quantity of minerals on site also exceed initial expectations.
“The increase in mineral thickness means that the yield from this last phase is more than estimated, which is a further mitigating factor to requiring an extension of time.”
If approved, the site will be restored to its original condition before the quarrying by October 29, 2014.
A decision is expected from West Berkshire Council by February 7.