We undertake projects on behalf of quarry operators and landowners that cover the identification and assessment of mineral reserves, and advice on negotiations for the sale and purchase of mineral-bearing land, including valuations. Our work related to planning issues ranges from initial site assessments to the preparation and follow-through of planning applications and submission of representations to minerals local plans. Examples of projects that we have undertaken cover sites at the development stage as well as active quarries and pits, and are as follows:-
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Research into the markets for different products from a proposed sand and gravel quarry in the West Country and advice on presenting a case of need in the context of a planning application.
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Evaluation of an extensive river gravel deposit near Thetford on behalf of the landowner. This involved detailed discussions with the tenant farmer to ensure minimum disturbance to the tenant's farming operation.
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Investigation and valuation of a sand deposit in western Berkshire on behalf of the owner's land agent. The exercise was completed using trial-pitting techniques due to the shallow nature of the deposit.
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Evaluation of a river terrace deposit near Southampton Water as part of a joint exercise between landowner and adjacent mineral operator. The site subsequently achieved planning permission and became an extension to the existing operation.
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Deskwork study of a large estate in Wiltshire to identify potential areas for reconnaissance investigation. This process identified two areas for further study, both of which revealed viable reserves of building sand. One of these was taken through the planning process and is now an operational sand pit and landfill site.
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Investigation of sand and gravel reserves on land forming part of a Lancashire farm on behalf of the owner. This exercise included the identification of a partially worked coal seam lying in mudstones beneath the main mineral horizon. We have continued to advise the landowner during progress towards securing planning permission for extraction and restoration by
landfilling.
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Drilling survey and assessment of the quantity and quality of sand and gravel reserves of a substantial private estate
on the south coast. Preparation and submission of
representations and objections to general and site specific
policies within the relevant draft minerals local plan.
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On behalf of several landowners, the appraisal of planning and
operational constraints to mineral extraction from land not
identified within the relevant minerals plan, and assessments of the
prospects for achieving planning consent.
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Advice on negotiations for the sale of mineral-bearing land
within Hampshire covering the amount of the consideration, the means
and methods of payment and other general clauses to be included
within the sale agreement.
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Royalty rent reviews for two sand and gravel sites in Hampshire. We advised the landowners and negotiated with the operators.
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Preparation of a
Competent Persons Report under Stock Exchange rules relating
to the acquisition of minerals assets in Yorkshire by a plc.
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