Plans to extend the operating hours of a saw shed to 24 hours a day, five days a week at Barnhill Quarry near Coleford have been approved by county planners despite concerns over potential noise disturbances from local residents.
Forest of Dean Stone Firms Ltd sought to amend the saw shed’s hours while also regularizing the structure on site, which has been extracting Pennant Sandstone since the late 19th century. The saw shed that was constructed differs from the original approved design, being smaller and lacking the previously planned L-shaped layout.
About 30 residents, particularly from Broadwell and Coalway, voiced worries about increased noise levels, especially during the night, which they feel already disrupts their sleep and degrades the rural tranquillity they value. The nearest homes are approximately 400 meters from the quarry.
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Both West Dean Parish Council and Coleford Town Council requested stringent controls should the proposal be accepted. Gloucestershire County Council’s planning committee was informed that the saw shed operations will temporarily pause if acoustic roller shutter doors are open between 6pm and 7am to mitigate noise impact.
Planning officers concluded that the proposal complies with relevant policies and is acceptable. Tom Waddington, director of the family-run Forest of Dean Stone Firms, emphasized the company’s century-long heritage and local economic contribution, employing 30 people and supporting various ancillary businesses.
He highlighted that their distinctive Forest Pennant sandstone is highly sought after for restoration and new construction projects due to its quality and aesthetic. The investment in the saw shed was aimed at enhancing production efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, improving workplace conditions, and minimizing heavy goods vehicle traffic.
Waddington stressed that extended operating hours are crucial for optimizing the new facility’s benefits, providing scheduling flexibility, meeting customer demands, and adapting to product requirements without workflow disruptions. Approval of the plans is expected to create six additional jobs and help address a national sandstone shortage following the closure of Marshall’s Quarry in Yorkshire.
County Councillor Beki Hoyland acknowledged the quarry’s importance to nearby parishes but advocated for regular updates on compliance with planning conditions concerning noise and lighting.
During the planning debate, Councillor Gary Luff recognized the economic need but shared local concerns about the proposed doubling of operational hours. Councillor Mark Harris supported the approval, citing business benefits, and Councillor Stephen Davies called for a condition requiring company representatives to meet parish councils annually about night-time activities.
Councillor Michael Rees, after visiting the site, noted the saw shed’s operations appeared quiet and unlikely to cause disturbance. Although the committee considered mandating regular updates to the parish councils, officers clarified this could not be enforced. However, the company voluntarily committed to attending parish council meetings.
Ultimately, the planning committee unanimously granted permission for the 24-hour saw shed operation at Barnhill Quarry, balancing economic development with community assurances.