Residents of Wolverley and Cookley rejoice as plans for a quarry are finally rejected after a long battle against NRS Aggregates
Wolverley: The ‘Stop the Quarry’ campaign, made up of over 4,000 locals, really made a difference in stopping the quarry plans that everyone was worried about.
It all started when Worcestershire County Council initially turned down NRS Aggregates’ planning application. But then the company appealed, which led to a public inquiry back in February 2023.
At that time, the inspector agreed with the council and the campaigners. But then, a judicial review messed things up by overturning that decision due to some technical errors.
Fast forward to October 2024, and another public inquiry confirmed the council’s original refusal, once again saying no to the quarry.
Adrian Carlos, the campaign chairman, couldn’t hide his happiness. He said the second inspector recognized that the quarry just wasn’t right for their area.
He added that this win is a huge nod to the community’s hard work in protecting their beloved space.
The proposal also clashed with plans for 1,400 new homes at the old Lea Castle Hospital site, which is only 200 meters away from where the quarry was supposed to be.
Residents were really concerned about the noise and dust from the quarry affecting those new homes, which went against what Wyre Forest District Council wanted for the area.
Mal and Andrew Macdonald, who live just 50 meters from the proposed site, shared their relief. They said it would have been a disaster for their community and their equestrian business, which has been around for 40 years.
They described their area as a precious haven for families and walkers, and they’re so glad it’s safe.
While everyone is feeling hopeful, there’s still a bit of uncertainty. NRS Aggregates has six weeks to decide if they want to apply for another judicial review.
But campaign manager Mike Lord thinks the chances of that happening are slim. He feels confident that two inspectors agreeing means a third one likely won’t change things.
Local MP Mark Garnier and county councillor Marcus Hart have been great supporters, helping the campaign with letters and appeals.
Adrian wrapped it up nicely, saying this result shows that justice has been served for the residents of Wolverley, Cookley, and Broadwaters.
For now, the community is celebrating this hard-earned victory, hoping it marks the end of their fight to keep their local landscape safe.
