Residents near the cluster of stone quarries in Temple Guiting, North Cotswolds, have voiced serious concerns about the ongoing impact of quarrying on their daily lives. Many villagers have reported avoiding opening their windows to limit exposure to dust, highlighting the persistent environmental challenges.
Conservative Councillor Tom Bradley, representing the area at Shire Hall, recently urged council leaders to provide clarity on what assessments have been made regarding the cumulative effects of quarrying activities. He specifically emphasized the need to understand how quarrying is impacting local highways, community wellbeing, amenities, and public health.
At a council meeting on May 13, Councillor Bradley requested an update following discussions with officers about measuring the long-term impacts of quarrying in the region.
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Liberal Democrat Councillor Martin Horwood, former cabinet portfolio holder for the area, confirmed that the cumulative impacts are currently being assessed as part of developing the minerals waste local plan. These considerations are also factored into decisions on individual planning applications.
Councillor Horwood explained that the council cabinet has been briefed about introducing a new plan aimed at better managing mineral extraction, including sand, gravel, and stone quarrying. He noted that while Cheltenham has minimal quarrying activity, areas like his own ward of Leckhampton—once characterized by an industrial landscape of quarries and tramways—have firsthand experience with the effects of quarrying.
“This issue is particularly relevant to rural communities like the North Cotswolds,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring thorough member and public engagement throughout the process. The forthcoming minerals and waste local plan will be presented to full council in due course, aiming to address these longstanding concerns comprehensively.