Public inquiry into Widnes quarry proposals completed
A public inquiry into controversial plans to excavate 1.06m cubic metres of sand from Bold Heath Quarry and fill it with construction waste has taken place in St Helens.
The proposals for the Derby Road site were originally rejected by St Helens Council in January this year after residents opposed the plans.
However, Ellesmere Port-based D Morgan lodged an appeal with the Government's planning inspectorate and its decision will be final.
The two-day proceedings were carried out yesterday and on Tuesday. Parliament member Derek Twigg was joined by Farnworth Councillor Phil Balmer, as well as members of the Bold Heath Action Group in speaking out against the plans.
Other witnesses were also cross examined over the two days.
In his opening statement, D Morgan's representative Anthony Crean QC, said planning permission dating back to 1990 already existed which allowed the quarry to be worked, and said those plans would be set in motion should the new appeal fail.
A final decision on the appeal could take twelve months.
