The Woodland Trust have submitted a formal objection to the planning application for gravel extraction in Bengeo.

woodland_trust_2013_1_largeCiting government guidance that states: planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, the Trust raises a number of objections to the quarry based on its location close to St.John’s Wood, including dust and noise.

In a four-page submission to the County Council, the Trust expresses concern about the affect of dust on the woodland’s spoil chemistry and inadequate buffering around St.John’s Wood.

They also express concerns about noise and light pollution and changes to the hydrology, thereby altering ground water and surface water quantities.

In their conclusion, they state: the Woodland Trust objects to this application because it is felt the buffer to protect St Johns Ancient Woodland and the protected species within it are currently insufficient.