WAGE protester and local councillor Daryll Pitcher

Isle of Wight residents oppose plans for new quarry, citing potential environmental impact on wildlife among objections

Cheryl Martin shares this news on behalf of WAGE (Wootton, Whippingham and Arreton Against Gravel Extraction), in her own words. Ed


The strength of local public feeling against the proposed gravel extraction plans at Palmers Farm in Wootton is now clear to see. 

‘STOP the gravel extraction’ signs have appeared in recent weeks along the controversial proposed access route to the site as WAGE (Wootton, Whippingham and Arreton Against Gravel Extraction) look to send a clear message to the Isle of Wight Council ahead of the expected planning application by Wight Building Materials in the coming weeks.

Holt: Significant potential environmental impact on wildlife and natural habitats
WAGE spokesperson and Chair, Bob Holt, comments,

“Despite Covid concerns well over 100 people joined us at three public meetings at the end of last year where people aired their many concerns over the proposed plans.

“There is significant potential environmental impact on wildlife and natural habitats along with the risk of damage to the neighbouring King’s Quay area which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

“The proposed 50 HGV movements a day along part of the Isle of Wight Coastal path and down a narrow country lane onto one of the busiest and dangerous main roads on the Island poses a significant risk to cyclists, walkers, horse riders and other vehicles pulling out onto the road.”

Pitcher: The wrong scheme in the wrong place
Local councillor, Daryll Pitcher, added,

“This is absolutely the wrong scheme in the wrong place. We are all aware of the impact of human activity on the environment at a global level and that has to translate to making the right decisions on a local one.

“I will be supporting as many Island residents as possible in voicing their objections to this scheme once we see the final detail of the planning application.”

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