Local Greens are delighted that Maidstone Borough Council’s Infrastructure committee recommend that the Hermitage Quarry expansion be opposed. The decision was made at a council committee meeting last night (6th Sept). The committee will now recommend to the cabinet member that the quarry expansion should be strongly opposed.
The meeting was preceded by a large and noisy protest outside the Town Hall. Speakers from the community voiced their deep concerns alongside councillors, arguing for the permanent protection of Oaken Wood.
A large majority of the cross party committee voted to recommend that the Cabinet reverse its draft letter to KCC supporting the quarry extension to mine another 18 million tonnes of roadstone from this site.
Green campaigner Rachel Rodwell, “I am delighted that the committee listened to us. The strength of feeling and support for the ancient woodland is massive. I hope that the Conservative Cabinet member on Maidstone Borough Council listens to his committee.”
Cllr Stuart Jeffery (Green Party), “The was a small but significant victory for the people and for the ancient woodland. Ancient woodland is highly protected and it is irreplaceable. We must do all we can to stop its destruction.”
Green campaigner Kimmy Milham, “Rather than digging up the ancient woodland, perhaps Gallaghers should gift it to the community so that it is an asset for everyone? I am really pleased that last night’s committee listened to us.”
Green campaigner Ian McDonald, “It was an amazing turnout and I’m so pleased that sense has prevailed. We will keep fighting until the threat has been completely defeated.”
Full meeting details here:- https://maidstone.gov.uk/home/primary-services/council-and-democracy/primary-areas/your-councillors?sq_content_src=%2BdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGbWVldGluZ3MubWFpZHN0b25lLmdvdi51ayUyRmllTGlzdERvY3VtZW50cy5hc3B4JTNGQ0lkJTNENzQyJTI2TUlkJTNENTI1MiZhbGw9MQ%3D%3D
Delight at council committee opposing Hermitage Quarry extension
