The planning and regulatory frameworks governing minerals and waste-related activities are central to the shaping of these dynamic industries. Much of the company's work relates to the securing of planning consents, licences and other authorisations for mineral workings, landfill sites, transfer stations and recycling facilities.

The company has always been expert in the preparation of statements of need for new sites and facilities, and the case of need is now a major issue in the securing of most planning consents.

Our early involvement in the development of new operations enables us to advise upon the identification and evaluation of potential sites, and to assist in their promotion through the development plan process which can be crucial for a successful outcome.

Planning applications and environmental statements are normally required to address the issues of policy and need, and to assess any potential impact on the highway network, ecology, landscape and so on. We are able to prepare and project manage the submission of these documents.

In the case of waste management facilities, the Environment Agency requires operational matters and environmental control measures to be addressed in detail in waste management licences, pollution prevention and control (PPC) authorisations and Working Plans. We prepare applications and Working Plans on behalf of our clients.

Other regulatory consents that may be required in relation to minerals and waste management related activities include water discharge consents and integrated pollution control authorisations.