Wiltshire and Swindon Aggregate Minerals Site … and Swindon Aggregate Minerals Site Allocations...

Wiltshire and Swindon Aggregate Minerals Site Allocations DPD Further assessments for aggregate minerals site options in Wiltshire and Swindon: Transport

Contents Introduction 1

Summary of findings 2

Site Option U2 3

Site Option U3 6

Site Option U4 9

Site Option U5 12

Site Option U6 15

Site Option U7 18

Site Option U9 22

Site Option U16 25

Site Option U17 28

Site Option U18 31

Site Option U22 34

Site Option U23 37

Site Option C3 40

Site Option C15 43

Site Option C16 46

Site Option C18 49

Site Options SE1 – SE3 53

Site Option SA1 57

Site Option SA2 60

Site Option BA4 63

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1. Introduction The Councils (Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council) consulted on an initial list of site options for soft sand and sand and gravel extraction in Wiltshire and Swindon from August to October 2010. The consultation document highlighted potential issues that might be associated with development of the sites and invited comments from various consultees including local communities. In many cases consultees questioned the adequacy of the local road network to accommodate minerals HGVs and the feasibility of locating and engineering access to the potential sites. Following consultation 40 site options were regarded as unlikely to be deliverable given the constraints to development and have consequently been dropped from further consideration. The 22 remaining site options now need to be subject to further evidence gathering and assessment to ensure that any decision on their suitability is based on robust evidence and qualified professional judgement. As would be expected all of the remaining site options are in rural areas. Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways officers were asked to assess the suitability of the site options as follows:

1. An assessment of the feasibility of creating an access to those site options that cannot utilise existing arrangements for adjacent/nearby quarry.

2. An assessment of the suitability of the road network to accommodate minerals HGVs (estimates of mean daily potential traffic movements have been provided for each site option to assist with the assessments).

The following pages of this report present the findings of the assessments and provide context for each of the site options highlighting the issues that were raised during the consultation and some general assumptions for each site, where possible.

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2. Summary of findings

Wiltshire Council’s Transport and Highways officers reviewed the available data in light of the comments submitted during consultation in 2010, and provided their professional view on the suitability of the site options from a historic built environment perspective. The findings do not reflect the sensitivity of the site options for the wider historic landscape, archaeology or in relation to other disciplines which are being considered separately. The table below summarises the conclusions of the assessment. Area Site

Ref New access possible?

Suitability of road network

Extension to nearby quarry

Upper Thames Valley U2 No Unsuitable Yes

Upper Thames Valley U3 Yes Potentially unsuitable No

Upper Thames Valley U4 No Potentially unsuitable Yes

Upper Thames Valley U5 No C114 unsuitable Yes


Upper Thames Valley U7 No Potentially unsuitable Yes

Upper Thames Valley U9 No Potentially unsuitable ?

Upper Thames Valley U16 Problematic Suitable No

Upper Thames Valley U17 Yes Suitable No

Upper Thames Valley U18 Yes Suitable No.



Calne Area C3 No Suitable Yes

Calne Area C15 Yes Unsuitable No

Calne Area C16 Yes Unsuitable Yes

Calne Area C18 Yes - problematic Unsuitable No

South East of Salisbury SE1 Yes - problematic Suitable No

South East of Salisbury SE2 No Suitable Yes

South East of Salisbury SE3 No Suitable Yes

Salisbury Avon SA1 No Unsuitable No

Salisbury Avon SA2 No Unsuitable No

Bristol Avon BA4 No Suitable No

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3. Site options within the Upper Thames Valley Mineral Resource Zone

Introduction The site options in the Upper Thames Valley are in most cases located adjacent to or in close proximity to existing quarries. The roads likely to be most affected by the site options are the C124/A419 for sites in the eastern section and B4696/A419 for site options in the western section. One of the key concerns of local communities is the cumulative effects of quarries operating simultaneously in the area on the local road network. It has been suggested by consultees that a ‘wear and tear’ tariff should be applied to new permissions for minerals extraction to help maintain the local road network. It has also been suggested that operators contribute to the creation of a north facing slip road for the A419 junction at Latton.

Site Option U2 Size (ha): 10.2 Context

The site option is located adjacent to the Wiltshire / Gloucestershire boundary and is in agricultural use. The surrounding area is also predominantly agricultural in use. The nearest settlement is Meysey Hampton to the west. There are also dwellings adjacent to western and southern boundaries of the potential site and in close proximity at Marston Hill. The nearest main road is the A417 approximately 150m to north, although the existing access road linking the site with the A417 is weight restricted to 7.5 tonnes. The land adjacent to U2, in Gloucestershire is allocated as a Preferred Area for sand and gravel extraction in the Gloucestershire Minerals Local Plan. There is a quarry operating in proximity to the area at Horcott, to the east.

Northings: 200100 Eastings: 413100 Resource type: Sharp sand and gravel Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 355,250 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Site option U2 is limited in size and yield. It is assumed that the site would be worked as an extension to Horcott quarry in Gloucestershire (utilising existing access and routing arrangements), linked via the allocated sites in the Gloucestershire Minerals Local Plan, and would be a continuation of existing operations.

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1 A system used to determine how funds are allocated for traffic calming / weight restriction measures within Wiltshire

Road traffic data Unfortunately no data relevant to this site could be located.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network A417 not part of Advisory Freight Route

Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism1 Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Issues with the capacity and adequacy of the C116 and C124, and the conflict

between aggregate lorries and other users of the highways, and traffic distribution to and from the junction with the A419 must be addressed and improvements such as the addition of North facing slip roads to that junction, so that it becomes an all movements junction, funded by the operators. The Council should impose wear and tear tariffs to allow for the maintenance of these local roads.

• The Site Allocation document should set out the necessary improvements to the highway infrastructure, the trigger points when these will be required, and contributions required by way of an adopted Community Infrastructure Levy from the respective sites to fund it.

• Impacts to the capacity of the A419 will need to be considered and any improvements to the A419 will need to be funded by the developer (Highways Agency).

• The Gloucestershire Highways Authority should be consulted where the sites are likely to result in a material impact upon the road network.

• The former Midland and South Western Junction Railway route passes through this area. Part of this line is operated by the Swindon and Cricklade Railway. Consideration should be given to reinstatement of this line and for use of transport of sand and gravel.

• All the sites within the Upper Thames Valley have the potential to impact upon the A419 and the M4. It is important that access to any of the potential sites is appropriate for the level of extraction proposed. This site directly abuts the A419 and there are concerns about the potential for noise and dust to impacts upon this road (HA).

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments If this site is worked as an extension (i.e. linked via conveyer or internal short haul) to the existing quarrying at Horcott no particular long term issues are anticipated. Use of local road network (A417) would not be suitable. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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2 These assumptions are indicative only to provide a basis for assessment.


The site option is situated adjacent to the active military airbase at RAF Fairford and is currently in agricultural use interspersed with copses and dense hedgerows. Area U3 is in close proximity to and overlooked by dwellings at Marston Meysey (to the west), Dunfield (north east) and Cox’s Farm (east). The site is characteristic of the area; essentially flat with views across the site in places where vegetation does not offer natural screening (there are views across the site from the C124). The eastern spine road (C124), currently used by quarry traffic from Eysey manor and Roundhouse farm to access the A419, runs adjacent to the southern boundary of the site option. There is a proposal for a new quarry access to the C124 approximately 300m from the junction with the A419 (at Down Ampney).

Northings: 197000 Eastings: 413500 Resource type: Sharp sand and gravel Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 2,400,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Although there is some potential to link this site option with either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor, it should be assumed that the site will need new access arrangements to the C124. Assumed annual production2

Time period for quarrying

Estimated number of two way trips per day

100,000 - 350,000 tonnes 7 - 24 years 19 - 67 Road traffic data Manual lorry survey undertaken at Marston

Meysey 2005. Count No. 05162: 12 Hour Lorry count on the C116 (through village of Marston Meysey found that a cumulative total of 113 (both directions) vehicles above 3.5 Tonnes were recorded in 2005. Notes indicate that only 13 vehicles were recorded over 7.5 Tonnes.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network C116 Not part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism C419 Latton 2nd position in 2011 priority list.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • A transport assessment of the site should be carried out, taking into account the

proximity of the extraction now taking place at Round House Farm, those levels now permitted to increase by a significant amount to allow the import of inert fill.

• The quarry is accessed by the C124. A large portion of quarry traffic uses this road which passes through Kempsford. The C124 out of Kempsford up to Latton is in a poor state of repair.

• The traffic in the area is extremely dangerous as lorries travel down the narrow

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winding lanes. The plan should consider the safety risks to motorists and cyclists. • Visibility at the junctions from both Dunfield and Marston Meysey to the C124 is poor. • There are concerns that restoration of area will lead to additional water park area

attracting visitors, leading to increase in use of local roads

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments C124 and C116 use would be a concern, particularly with regards to the access / egress from the A419 with increased HGV’s travelling through Latton rather than using the A419 southbound junction to Calcutt junction. Although it would probably be possible to achieve a suitable access to this site, the road linking the site to A419 is not of a good standard. It would be better to concentrate on sites which are located closer to A419. New access possible? Yes. Suitability of road network Potentially unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Unlikely.

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The site option comprises three units separated by single track roads. It is currently in agricultural use, and Blackburr Farm is located within the site option. The site is located in close proximity to and overlooked to some extent by dwellings at Castle Eaton (approximately 250m south east of the site option) and occupants of the Second Chance Touring Park, which lies adjacent to the south western corner of the site. The site and surrounding area is broadly flat (the village of Castle Eaton is slightly elevated in relation to the site) with views across the site in places where vegetation does not offer natural screening. The eastern spine road (C124), currently used by quarry traffic from Eysey manor and Roundhouse farm to access the A419, runs adjacent to the northern boundary of the site option. There is a proposal for a new quarry access to the C124 approximately 300m from the junction with the A419 (at Down Ampney).


Assumptions for site option Although there is some potential to link this site option within either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor, as a worst case scenario it should be assumed that the site will need new access arrangements to the C124. Assumed annual production3



100,000 - 200,000 tonnes 4 - 8 years 19 - 38 Road traffic data Manual lorry survey undertaken at Marston

Meysey 2005. Count No. 05162: 12 Hour Lorry count on the C116 through Marston Masey found that a cumulative total of 113 (both directions) vehicles above 3.5 Tonnes were recorded in 2005. Notes indicate that only 13 vehicles were recorded over 7.5 Tonnes.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network C116 Not part of Advisory Network. Note:

Introduction and consultation of ‘Access’ or third level of advisory freight routing expected in late 2011. All areas are expected to be consulted on individual preferred access level routes through Area Boards during the consultation.

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Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Suitability of access to site from C124 and access to site option via nearby quarry

should be assessed. Local road network in proximity to site option is currently used by minerals HGVs. Assessment of potential cumulative effects with other quarries using C124 required.

• The quarry is accessed by the C124. A large portion of quarry traffic uses this road which passes through Kempsford. The C124 out of Kempsford up to Latton is in a poor state of repair.

• The traffic in the area is extremely dangerous as lorries travel down the narrow winding lanes. The plan should consider the safety risks to motorists and cyclists.

• Visibility at the junctions from both Dunfield and Marston Meysey to the C124 is poor. • There are concerns that restoration of area will lead to additional water park area

attracting visitors, leading to increase in use of local roads.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments C124 and C116 use would be a concern, particularly with regards to the access / egress from the A419 with increased HGV’s travelling through Latton rather than using the A419 southbound junction to Calcutt junction. An acceptable access may be difficult to achieve in view of the alignment of the road. In my view this site would only be acceptable as an extension to Roundhouse Farm, utilising the existing access. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network C124/C116 potentially unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses. A lens of willow coppice is located within the site, surrounded by established trees. The site is bounded on the northern and western sides by the River Thames. Part of the site is exposed to open views from Second Chance caravan/camping site, separated by the River Thames. Dwellings in Castle Eaton (approximately 250m east of the site), and those along the road leading to Castle Eaton (North Farm, Plague cottages, Water Eaton cottages) are in proximity to the site. The C124 lies approximately 600m north of the site. The A419 is approximately 3km south west of the site if the Castle Eaton road were to be used. There is a quarry operating immediately north of the River Thames beyond the northern boundary of the site at Roundhouse Farm.

Northings: 195700 Eastings: 413600 Resource type: Sharp sand and gravel Current use: agricultural/ managed woodland Estimated resource yield: 300,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option There are no feasible alternatives to access this site option other than to link this site option with either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor. Assumed annual production4



100,000 - 200,000 tonnes Could extend life of existing quarry operation by 1.5 - 3 years

19 – 38 (would operate as continuation of production from existing quarry).

Road traffic data No data. Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network C114 not part of advisory network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism C419 Latton 2nd position in 2011 priority list.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation

• All the sites within the Upper Thames Valley have the potential to impact upon the A419 and the M4. It is important that access to any of the potential sites is appropriate for the level of extraction proposed.

• Quarry traffic from Castle Eaton cannot use the junction with the A419. What route will the quarry traffic take?

• The transport infrastructure south of the River Thames is inadequate and weight restricted (7.5 tonne) at Castle Eaton.

• There are concerns that restoration of the area will lead to additional water park areas attracting visitors and leading to an increase in use of local roads.

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• Suitability of access to site from nearby quarry (across River Thames) should be assessed. Local road network in proximity to site option is not suitable for use by minerals HGVs.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments It is envisaged that access to this site would be through existing quarries. Access to the sites using the adjacent C114 would be inappropriate, especially with regards to access/egress to the A419. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network C114 unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses. The eastern boundary of the site borders the River Thames and Eisey West copse is located adjacent to the site’s western boundary. There are no properties within 500m of the site boundary. The site option is within 500m of the C124 and the A419 is approximately 3km south west of the site. Land adjacent to the site option is allocated in the Minerals Local Plan as a preferred area for sand and gravel extraction and is subject to a planning application. The entire site area is classed as a Scheduled Monument. There is a quarry operating approximately 800m to the north east of the site option at Roundhouse Farm.


Assumptions for site option There are no realistic alternatives to access this site option other than to link this site option with either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor. Assumed annual production5



100,000 - 200,000 tonnes Could extend life of existing quarry operation by 2 - 3.5 years

19 - 38 (would operate as continuation of production from existing quarry).

Road traffic data No data. Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network C114 not part of advisory network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism C419 Latton 2nd position in 2011 priority list.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Assessment of suitability of access to site via conveyor to nearby quarry or Preferred

Area (Minerals Local Plan allocation). • Issues with the capacity and adequacy of the C116 and C124, and the conflict between

aggregate lorries and other users of the highways, and traffic distribution to and from the junction with the A419 must be addressed and improvements such as the addition of North facing slip roads to that junction, so that it becomes an all movements junction, funded by the operators. The Council should impose wear and tear tariffs to allow for the maintenance of these local roads.

• Impacts to the capacity of the A419 will need to be considered and any improvements to the A419 will need to be funded by the developer (Highways Agency).

• Assessment of potential impact/enhancement to PRoW associated with former

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Thames/Severn canal will also need to be assessed.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments It is envisaged that access to this site would be through existing quarries. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network Unsuitable - no adjacent road. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land that is typically Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The north west boundary of the site is delineated by the River Thames, along which runs the Thames Path National Trail. There is also another PRoW that crosses the site. The nearest settlements are Cricklade to the west and Castle Eaton to the northeast, although there are a number of closer dwellings located adjacent to and in proximity to the site option. The site is crossed by an oil pipeline and low level power lines. The site is adjacent to Cricklade junction of the A419. Eysey Quarry is in operation in close proximity to the north west of the site.


Assumptions for site option It is assumed that the provision of a new junction with the A419 would not be realistic and therefore existing access arrangements would need to be utilised, either using the A419 at Cricklade or via conveyor to existing quarry. This site option could also be linked with either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor. Assumed annual production6



200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 6 - 11 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data No data. Road Traffic Accidents DE417/07. Location: Northbound exit slip

road from A419 onto B4040, Cricklade. Time: 0237. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling NW exited A419 and failed to negotiate sweeping left hand bend, left carriageway to offside and collided with a tree. 1 casualty. DH105/07. Location: A419 Swindon rural. Time: 0825. Accident description: V1 (unknown articulated lorry), V2 (M/C), V3 (Car) and V4 (Minibus) travelling SE on A419. V2 was overtaking and collided with V1, causing V3 and V4 to collide. 1 casualty. DE389/07. Location: A419, junction of turning to Kingshill Farm, Cricklade. Time:

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0437. Accident description: V2 (Car) travelling NW in inside lane. V1 (Pedal Cycle) travelling SW crossed in front of V2 causing V2 to take avoiding action. V2 left carriageway to nearside and entered ditch. 1 casualty. DE581/07. Location: Junction of A419 and C114, near Seven Bridges, Cricklade. Time: 1610. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling SW pulled out from central reservation onto main carriageway turning right and was struck by V2 (Car) travelling NW in lane two. V1 was pushed off carriageway. 3 casualties. DN336/10. Location: A419, junction of C114 to Castle Eaton, Cricklade. Time: 2036. Accident description: V1 (Taxi travelling NW turned right across Southbound carriageway and collided with V2 (Car) travelling SE. Both V1 and V2 left carriageway to nearside and overturned into ditch. 5 casualties. DN045/11. Location: A419, junction with C114 to Castle Eaton, Cricklade. Time: 1931. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling S pulled out onto main road turning left. V2 (Car) travelling SE collided with rear of V1. V3 (Car) travelling SE swerved into lane two to avoid collision. V4 (Car) travelling SE collided with rear of V3. 2 casualties.

Network C114 not part of advisory network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism C419 Latton 2nd position in 2011 priority list.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • This site directly abuts the A419 and there are concerns about the potential for noise

and dust to impacts upon this road (HA). • Suitability of access to site from nearby quarry should be assessed. Local road

network in proximity to site option is not suitable for use by minerals HGVs and access to A419 at roundabout likely to be difficult to achieve although this option should also be assessed.

• Assessment of potential impacts/enhancement to PRoW (Thames Path National Trial) will also need to be assessed.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Access to site via existing Cricklade junction would need assessment at planning application stage. Only acceptable in conjunction with existing quarry.

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Use of the existing farm track and service road connecting to the Cricklade junction of A419 would not be acceptable as the service road and junction were only designed to a standard suitable to serve local properties. Access via the Water Eaton road would not be possible because of the nature of the road and its junction with A419. The Highways Agency is likely to resist any increased use of that junction. I consider that this site would only be acceptable if worked in conjunction with an existing quarry. New access possible? No. Unless it can be demonstrated at

planning application stage that safe/suitable access to Cricklade junction could be engineered.

Suitability of road network Potentially unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land that is typically Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. Cricklade is less than 1km south of the site and the settlement of Latton is located adjacent to the site’s north west boundary. The A419 runs in proximity to the south west boundary of the site and the south east boundary abuts the C124. A significant part of the site is classed as a Scheduled Monument. Eysey Quarry is in operation in close proximity to the south east of the site.


Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that this site option would be linked with either currently active or proposed quarries in this area via conveyor. Assumed annual production7



200,000 - 350,000 tonnes Could extend life of existing quarry operation by 3.5 - 6 years

38 - 67 (would operate as continuation of production from existing quarry).

Road traffic data A419 Specific Count: 1924 vehicles 12 hr average daily traffic > than 6.6metres in length.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network Not part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism C419 Latton 2nd position in 2011 priority list.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • This site directly abuts the A419 and there are concerns about the potential for noise

and dust to impacts upon this road (HA). It is important that access to any of the potential sites is appropriate for the level of extraction proposed.

• General concerns were raised about highway safety in relation to associated minerals traffic.

• Suitability of access to site from nearby quarry or Preferred Area (Mineral Local Plan allocation) should be assessed.

• It is important that access to any of the potential sites is appropriate for the level of extraction proposed.

• Potential for use of former Midland & South Western Junction Railway route as an alternative mode of transport for sand and gravel (Swindon and Cricklade Railway).

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Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments C419 (Latton Village road) use would be a concern, particularly with regards to the access/egress from the A419 with increased HGV’s travelling through Latton rather than using the A419 southbound junction to Calcutt junction. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network Potentially unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Possible (dependant on outcome of Down

Ampney proposal).

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 3 and 4 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The nearest settlement is Ashton Keynes, less than 1km to the north of the site option and there are a few farmstead/private residencies located adjacent to the east and west boundaries of the site. The Chancel, Waterhay County Wildlife Site is entirely within the site. There is also a small lake and copse on site, which appear to be managed for nature conservation. The site option is crossed by a number of PRoW. The site is within approximately 550m of the B4696 part of the Local Lorry Route. Existing roads around the area are single track lanes in places and the site is surrounded by 7.5t weight restrictions on all but the western boundary. The nearest quarry to the site option is at Cleveland Farm to the north.


Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that at least one of the site options U16 – U18 would require new access arrangements onto the B4696. Assumed annual production8



200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 6 - 10 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data None available. Road Traffic Accidents EY163/10. Location: B4696 Spine Road

(East), approximately 60m SW of Fridays Ham Lane, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2214. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling SW lost control on sweeping R/H bend, left carriageway to nearside, collided with trees and a roadsign and overturned. Driver V1 impaired by alcohol. 1 casualty. EY291/09. Location: B4696, outside Derryfields Farm, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2133. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling N on road that had been closed off to traffic for re-surfacing. V1 lost control when travelling over uneven surface. Rider

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of V1 fell from M/C. 1 casualty. EK284/07. Location: Junction of B4040 & B4696, Leigh Crossroads, Leigh. Time: 1030. Accident description: V1 (Lorry) travelling E(?) turns right at traffic lights across path of V2 (Car) travelling W(?). V2 collides with nearside of V1. Both vehicles had green lights but V1 should have given way to V2. 3 casualties.

Network B4696 is part of Advisory Network. Note: Introduction and consultation of ‘Access’ or third level of advisory freight routing expected in late 2011. All areas are expected to be consulted on individual preferred access level routes through Area Boards during the consultation.

Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism B4040 top priority 2009, B4696, Braydon Crossroads (of B4040) currently top priority 2011.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Potential for use of former Midland & South Western Junction Railway route as an

alternative mode of transport for sand and gravel (Swindon and Cricklade Railway). • Suitability of local road network (B4696) to access site and accommodate minerals

HGV.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments B4040 was subject to a freight study on the back of the 2009 FAPM list. The study concluded that: a significant number of HGV’s use the B4040 between Malmesbury and Leigh as a through route, with the majority of vehicles travelling to or from the B4696 at Ashton Keynes. The majority of operators are travelling between the quarries at Ashton Keynes and sites in the Malmesbury area. It is recommended that no further action is taken on the development of this scheme as the B4040 is the most appropriate route for HGV’s to use in this area and there are no suitable alternative routes on the surrounding road network. Obvious to note that this study was based prior to knowledge of any significant increase in HGV‘s on the network. It would be difficult to achieve a suitable access to this site from B4696. Access from C2 High Road would not be acceptable in view of the nature of the road and its junction with B4696. Linking to site U17 by conveyor would be acceptable. New access possible? Access would be problematic. Suitability of road network B4696 suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No. Could be linked to adjacent site option.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 3 and 4 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The nearest settlement is Ashton Keynes approximately 600m to the north, although there are a number of dwellings located within 100-200m of the site option. The western boundary of the site is marked by the B4696 and the site is within 130m of the B4696 part of the Local Lorry Route. Existing roads around the area are single track lanes in places and the site is surrounded by 7.5t weight restrictions. The nearest quarry to the site option is at Manor Farm to the northwest.





200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 2 - 3.5 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data None available. Road Traffic Accidents EY163/10. Location: B4696 Spine Road

(East), approximately 60m SW of Fridays Ham Lane, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2214. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling SW lost control on sweeping R/H bend, left carriageway to nearside, collided with trees and a roadsign and overturned. Driver V1 impaired by alcohol. 1 casualty. EY291/09. Location: B4696, outside Derryfields Farm, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2133. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling N on road that had been closed off to traffic for re-surfacing. V1 lost control when travelling over uneven surface. Rider of V1 fell from M/C. 1 casualty. EK284/07. Location: Junction of B4040 & B4696, Leigh Crossroads, Leigh. Time: 1030. Accident description: V1 (Lorry)

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travelling E(?) turns right at traffic lights across path of V2 (Car) travelling W(?). V2 collides with nearside of V1. Both vehicles had green lights but V1 should have given way to V2. 3 casualties.

Network B4696 is part of the Advisory Network. Note: Introduction and consultation of ‘Access’ or third level of advisory freight routing expected in late 2011. All areas are expected to be consulted on individual preferred access level routes through Area Boards during the consultation.

Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism B4040 top priority 2009 (see above). B4696, Braydon Crossroads (of B4040) currently top priority 2011.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Midland & South Western Junction Railway route as an alternative mode of transport

for sand and gravel (Swindon and Cricklade Railway). • Suitability of local road network (B4696) to access site and accommodate minerals

HGVs.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments B4040 was subject to a freight study on the back of the 2009 FAPM list. The study concluded that: a significant number of HGV’s use the B4040 between Malmesbury and Leigh as a through route, with the majority of vehicles travelling to or from the B4696 at Ashton Keynes. The majority of operators are travelling between the quarries at Ashton Keynes and sites in the Malmesbury area. It is recommended that no further action is taken on the development of this scheme as the B4040 is the most appropriate route for HGV’s to use in this area and there are no suitable alternative routes on the surrounding road network. Obvious to note that this study was based prior to knowledge of any significant increase in HGV‘s on the network. The B4696 is straight fronting the site and a suitable access could be provided, involving widening into the site to provide a right turn lane. The B4696 is already a signed lorry route. New access possible? Yes. Suitability of road network Suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 3 and 4 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The nearest settlement is Ashton Keynes less than 1km north of the site, although there are a number of dwellings around 100-200m from the site option. Adjacent to the western boundary of the site is Swillbrook Field County Wildlife Site. The site has potential for access to the B4696 part of the Local Lorry Route. The nearest quarry to the site option is at Manor Farm to the north.





200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 5 - 9 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data None available. Road Traffic Accidents EY163/10. Location: B4696 Spine Road

(East), approximately 60m SW of Fridays Ham Lane, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2214. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling SW lost control on sweeping R/H bend, left carriageway to nearside, collided with trees and a roadsign and overturned. Driver V1 impaired by alcohol. 1 casualty. EY291/09. Location: B4696, outside Derryfields Farm, Ashton Keynes. Time: 2133. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling N on road that had been closed off to traffic for re-surfacing. V1 lost control when travelling over uneven surface. Rider of V1 fell from M/C. 1 casualty. EK284/07. Location: Junction of B4040 & B4696, Leigh Crossroads, Leigh. Time: 1030. Accident description: V1 (Lorry) travelling E(?) turns right at traffic lights across path of V2 (Car) travelling W(?). V2 collides with nearside of V1. Both vehicles had green lights but V1 should have given

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way to V2. 3 casualties. Network B4696 is part of Advisory Network. Note:

Introduction and consultation of ‘Access’ or third level of advisory freight routing expected in late 2011. All areas are expected to be consulted on individual preferred access level routes through Area Boards during the consultation.

Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism B4040 top priority 2009; B4696, Braydon Crossroads (of B4040) currently top priority 2011.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Potential for use of former Midland & South Western Junction Railway route as an

alternative mode of transport for sand and gravel (Swindon and Cricklade Railway). • Suitability of local road network (B4696) to access site and accommodate minerals

HGVs.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments B4040 was subject to a freight study on the back of the 2009 FAPM list. The study concluded that: a significant number of HGV’s use the B4040 between Malmesbury and Leigh as a through route, with the majority of vehicles travelling to or from the B4696 at Ashton Keynes. The majority of operators are travelling between the quarries at Ashton Keynes and sites in the Malmesbury area. It is recommended that no further action is taken on the development of this scheme as the B4040 is the most appropriate route for HGV’s to use in this area and there are no suitable alternative routes on the surrounding road network. Obvious to note that this study was based prior to knowledge of any significant increase in HGV‘s on the network. The B4696 is straight fronting the site and a suitable access could be provided, involving widening into the site to provide a right turn lane. The B4696 is already a signed lorry route. New access possible? Yes. Suitability of road network Suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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The site option is located between Keynes Country Park (consisting of lakes used for recreation) to the west and Cotswold Community School (which includes residential buildings) to the east. As of July 2011 the school will close permanently and associated residential buildings will no longer be occupied. The area is situated in proximity to the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire boundary and is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The nearest settlement is Ashton Keynes, approximately 1.6km to the south east of the site option. The southern boundary of the site is formed by the western spine road, approximately 850m from the point at which it becomes part of the Local Lorry Route (eastern spine road - B4696). The spine road cycle track also runs along the southern perimeter of the site. The nearest operational quarry is at Shorncote to the north of the site.


Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that site options U22 and U23 would either require new access arrangements onto the B4696 or be linked to operations at Shorncote quarry to the north via conveyor. Assumed annual production11



200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 3.5 – 6.5 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data None. Road Traffic Accidents EY258/09. Location: B4696 Spine Road East

junction with B496 N. End Road, Ashton Keynes. Time: 1615. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling W, approaching cross-roads. V4 (Car) travelling W stationary at cross-roads followed by V3 (Car) then V2 (Car). V1 came behind V2 and collided with R/N/S of V2, rider of V1 became dislodged from VEH and trapped under V3, the M/C continued on and collided with V4. 1 casualty. EK216/08. Location: Junction of B4696

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Spine Road East & C85 Spine Road West, Ashton Keynes. Time: 0822. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling E pulled out onto main road and was struck by V2 (M/C) travelling north on main road. 1 casualty.


Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism B4696, Braydon Crossroads (of B4040) currently top priority 2011.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Swindon and Cricklade railway could transport mineral. Proposals to extend north to

Cirencester and to connect with Gloucester line at Moredon Bridge, but would need Wiltshire Council support. One train could be the same as 220 lorries.

• Infrastructure still in place from the Shorncote/Cotswold Community Quarry to the north. Spine road cycle track runs along the southern perimeter.

• Assess feasibility of utilising existing access arrangements at Shorncote to north of site option and potential to access B4696 and assessment of suitability of this stretch of road.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Concern that the inappropriate C85 Spine road west is used for access rather than existing quarry site access to the north. The Cotswold Community access is not suitable to serve this site without significant upgrading of both the road and its junction with C85 Spine Road West. I have doubts about the feasibility of this. A new access to C85 Spine Road West would be difficult to achieve bearing in mind the road alignment and land constraints. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network C85 unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is located to the east of Cotswold Community School and adjacent to residential buildings that overlook part of the site. As of July 2011 the school will close permanently and associated residential buildings will no longer be occupied. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. A significant part of the site is classed as a Scheduled Monument. The site is bordered by established mature hedgerows and there are a number of low level power lines which cross the site. Adjacent to the site to the east are lakes that were created as a result of previous sand and gravel extraction. The nearest settlement is Ashton Keynes, approximately 1.2km to the south east of the site option. The southern boundary of the site is formed by the western spine road. The nearest operational quarries are at Shorncote to the north west of the site and North End Farm to the east of the site.


Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that site options U22 and U23 would either require new access arrangements onto the B4696 or be linked to operations at Shorncote quarry to the north via conveyor. Assumed annual production12



200,000 - 350,000 tonnes 5 - 9 years 38 - 67 Road traffic data None. Road Traffic Accidents EY258/09. Location: B4696 Spine Road East

junction with B496 N. End Road, Ashton Keynes. Time: 1615. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling W, approaching cross-roads. V4 (Car) travelling W stationary at cross-roads followed by V3 (Car) then V2 (Car). V1 came behind V2 and collided with R/N/S of V2, rider of V1 became dislodged from VEH and trapped under V3, the M/C continued on and collided with V4. 1 casualty.

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EK216/08. Location: Junction of B4696 Spine Road East & C85 Spine Road West, Ashton Keynes. Time: 0822. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling E pulled out onto main road and was struck by V2 (M/C) travelling north on main road. 1 casualty.


Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism B4696, Braydon Crossroads (of B4040) currently top priority 2011.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Swindon and Cricklade railway could transport mineral. Proposals to extend north to

Cirencester and to connect with Gloucester line at Moredon Bridge, but would need Wiltshire Council support. One train could be the same as 220 lorries.

• Infrastructure still in place from the Shorncote/Cotswold Community Quarry to the north. Spine road cycle track runs along the southern perimeter.

• Assess feasibility of utilising existing access arrangements at Shorncote to north of site option and potential to access B4696 and assessment of suitability of this stretch of road.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Concern that the inappropriate C85 Spine road west is used for access rather than existing quarry site access to the north. The Cotswold Community access is not suitable to serve this site without significant upgrading of both the road and its junction with C85 Spine Road West. I have doubts about the feasibility of this. A new access to C85 Spine Road West would be possible as there is sufficient site frontage available. Access from North End would not be acceptable. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network C85 unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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4. The site options within the Calne Area Mineral Resource Zone

Introduction Quarries have been in operation to the east of Calne since the 1960’s. Operations are currently concentrated at Sands Farm and Lower Compton (in proximity to site option C3), which also operate as waste management facilities. Relatively small scale sand extraction also took place in recent years (1990 - 1999) at Sahara Sand Pit, adjacent to site option C16. There are two other site options in the area, C15, near Derry Hill and C18, between Rowde and Bromham. Both site options are adjacent to the A342 but there has been significant concern locally about the suitability of this road for access and use by minerals HGVs. There also wider concerns in relation to the use of roads in and out of Calne adding to congestion in the town.

Site Option C3 Size (ha): 23.4 Context

The closest settlements to the site option are Calne (approximately 1km to the south west) and Compton Bassett (approximately 1.2km east) although there are a few farmstead / private residencies within 500m of the site boundary. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is predominantly Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is approximately 300m east of the site. The northern boundary of the site is delineated by Abberd Brook. A PRoW crosses through the site. The area is served by the A3102 and A4. The nearest operational quarries to the site are at Sands Farm (to the south) and Compton Bassett (east), which also operate as landfill/waste management facilities.

Northings: 172100 Eastings: 401700 Resource type: Soft sand Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 450,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that site option C3 would not require new access but would be linked to an existing quarry via conveyor. Production would be expected to continue at a rate of approximately 50,000 - 100,000 tonnes but taking into consideration historic production in the area an upper level of 200,000 tonnes per annum should be assumed as worst case scenario.

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Assumed annual production13



50,000 - 200,000 tonnes 2.5 - 9 years 10 - 40 (using existing access arrangements for Sands Farm or Lower Compton quarry)

Road traffic data ATC data counter G4. 12 hr 5 Day average long vehicles over 6.5 meter length (including buses) = 284.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network Access off of A4 (part of Advisory Freight

Route Network) using current Hills site entrance or A3102 (not part of Advisory Freight Route Network) via Sand Pit Lane.

Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Increase in traffic could increase congestion in Calne, site does not have access to

the road network, and access via sandpit lane would be inappropriate due to housing permissions at Sandpit Lane.

• Assess feasibility of site option forming an extension to nearby quarry and using existing quarry access arrangements. This site is likely to be operated as continuation of current quarries in the area and therefore would not lead to a significant increase in HGV traffic. However, an assessment of the potential impacts of continued HGV traffic generated as a result of this site option on roads in Calne will need to be undertaken.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Ideally access should be via Sandpit Lane rather than Lower Compton as this has the potential to reduce HGV movements through Calne. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network A3102 via Sandpit Lane suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is located approximately 2.7km south east of Chippenham and 3.7km west of Calne. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is classified as Grade 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. A number of farms border the land (including Pitter’s Farm to the south) and there are also a number of residential properties located close to the northern boundary. Areas of ancient woodland are located to the east and west of the site. Ancient Woodland / County Wildlife Sites (Raspberry Copse and Badgers Brow, Horse Copse, Pigsty Copse, Great Wood) border the land and other examples (Pitters Wood, Nethermore Wood, Ash Grove, Derr Hill Farm meadow) are located in the immediate and surrounding area. Substantially mature and established hedgerows/copses separate fields on the land and are likely to act as wildlife corridors. Bowood Historic Park and Garden is approximately 5m to the eastern boundary of the site and Spye Park Historic Park and Garden is located 450m to the south of the land. The eastern boundary of the site is less well screened by natural vegetation and is marked by the A342. At this stretch of the A342 route the road undulates and drops in height significantly down to Derry Hill to the north. At Derry Hill, the road narrows with stone walls on either side of the road.

Northings: 169400 Eastings: 395600 Resource type: Soft sand Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 3,000,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that site option C15 would require new access to the A342. Production would be expected to continue at a rate of approximately 50,000 – 100,000 tonnes but taking into consideration historic production in the area an upper level of 200,000 tonnes per annum should be assumed as worst case scenario. Assumed annual production14



50,000 - 200,000 tonnes 15 - 20+ years 10 - 40 Road traffic data ATC data counter G2 Q4/2010.

12 hr 5 Day average long vehicles over 6.5metre length (including buses) = 245.

Road Traffic Accidents EN340/10. Location: Junction of A342 Old Derry Hill & A4 New Road, Derry Hill, Calne Without. Time: 1800. Accident description:

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V2 (Car) travelling NW waiting to enter main road. V1 (Van) travelling NW behind V2 failed to stop and collided with rear of V2. 1 casualty.

Network Access off of A342 (Local Lorry Route). Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Minerals traffic would create a safety hazard for other road users, Studley junction

(A342/A4) is already dangerous – there have been accidents and fatalities near to the site.

• The nearest primary HGV route is the A350, 7km from the site. The A342 narrows significantly downhill of the Lansdowne Arms Pub, and would be difficult for minerals traffic to pass at this point.

• This route is closed in periods of cold weather, due to the gradient and the water that freely flows across the road from the surrounding fields.

• There are very few over-taking opportunities on the A342 and quarry traffic will increase driver frustration and lead to more risk-taking.

• The gradient of the A342 near Derry Hill is 18%. The steep hill at Derry Hill would mean that the HGVs would not be able to slow down quickly enough.

• Access to and from site onto A342 would be dangerous, access from the lane in Naish Hill would be unsuitable.

• There are two major ‘pinch points’ (one between listed buildings and one being a narrow walled cutting 5.45 – 5.49 metres wide) on the A342 near Derry Hill.

• There are concerns that minerals traffic would cut through village of Derry Hill to access A4, the site will result in an extra HGV on the road every 4-5 minutes.

• Past requests for improvements to A342 and A4 in Calne area were not supported by Wiltshire Council.

• Quarry traffic would be a risk to residents and would hinder emergency services.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments It is possible to achieve a suitable access to A342 as the site has a long frontage. However I have concerns about the suitability of A342 to accommodate the traffic that would be generated by any quarrying. These concerns relate to the narrow section through Derry Hill, the sections through the intermediate villages of Sandy Lane and Rowde and the junction in Devizes at the top of Dunkirk Hill. Traffic heading SW will also need to pass through Calne town centre. This site is not supported. New access possible? Yes. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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The land within the site option is broadly flat and in agricultural use on land classified as Grade 2 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. It is located in an elevated position at Sandridge, overlooking a steep downward slope to the south providing extensive views of the broad, low lying Avon Valley. The area is characterised by a mix of the surrounding market garden farming activities and patches of woodland. The former Sahara Sand quarry (extraction ceased in 1999) lies adjacent to the western boundary of the site. Part of the former quarry is classified as a Regional Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites (RIGS). Part of Basin Wood (County Wildlife Site / ancient woodland) is located adjacent to the northern boundary of the site. In addition, Hanging Wood County Wildlife Site (to the north west) and Morass Wood County Wildlife Site / ancient woodland (to the south) are located in proximity to the land. A PRoW crosses the site running from the southern boundary of the site to the centre and across to the eastern boundary. The nearest settlements to the site are the villages of Westbrook (approximately 1.5km north east), Bromham (approximately 2.2km east) and Melksham (approximately 2.4km to the west). A dwelling is located approximately 100m south of the site and properties can be found approximately 200m to the east and west of the land at Sandridge. No buildings are located on the land, although the footprint of a small structure can be found within the site boundary. The site has direct access onto the A3102 which forms the southern boundary of the site. The A3102 route drops in height significantly when travelling west towards Melksham and dips and bends when travelling east in the direction of Bromham. Vehicles would need to travel 3.3km east along the A3102 to the nearest Local Lorry Route (A342) or 4.5km west to the nearest Strategic Lorry Route (A350).


Assumptions for site option It should be assumed that site option C16 would use existing access arrangements for Sahara Sand Pit. Production should be assumed to take place at a rate of approximately 50,000 – 100,000 tonnes per annum.

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50,000 - 100,000 tonnes 5 - 10 years 10 - 20 Road traffic data None available. Road Traffic Accidents EZ027/11. Junction of A342 Devizes Road

with A3102 Westbrook Road, Bromham. Time: 2052. Accident description: V1 (Motorbike) travelling E at speed approaches junction and because of a greasy road surface has been unable to stop. V1 has continued across junction and collided with kerb. 1 casualty.

Network A3102 Not part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Increase in HGV traffic and congestion on local road network, increased traffic along

A3102 will separate the community of Sandridge and Sandridge Common and deter pedestrians.

• Site is off the designated HGV route network (3km) and Strategic Lorry Route (4.5km).

• The A3102 and A342 are already used by slow moving HGV traffic leading to dangerous overtaking manoeuvres; little attention is given to current speed limits.

• Local roads considered to be accident prone and have a poor record over the last four years. A3102 (junction with A342 and Melksham) – 16, with 13 slight and 3 serious injuries; A342 (Browfort to Derry Hill) – 46, with 13 slight and 3 serious injuries and 2 fatalities.

• A3102 considered to be unsuitable, some junctions are particularly dangerous (turnings adjacent to Bromham along the A342 and the junction between Sandridge Lane and A3102).

• Impacts of noise from on site vehicles and HGVs. • A342 road surface is poor in places. • A342 main route for emergency vehicles. • Site will lead to an additional 6 HGVs per day. If 22 tonne HGVs are used and the

extraction period is halved then there would be four times as many additional HGVs.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Would promote undesirable through use of the A3102. It should be possible to utilise the previous access to Sahara Sand Pit with some minor upgrading for fairly low extraction rates. However any significant traffic movements would require the provision of a right turn lane and the possible acquisition of third party land. The concerns about the local highway network expressed in relation to C15 above also apply to this site. New access possible? Yes. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? Yes.

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The site option is located between Bromham (approximately 700m to the north west) and Rowde (approximately 400m to the south east). There are no buildings on the site although there are several dwellings located within 50m and several more between 50-100m from the site. The area is predominantly flat and is characterised by the surrounding market garden farming activities. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land classified as predominantly Grade 2 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. There are also areas of woodland on site. Horse Lane Farm, Brook Field County Wildlife Site is located within the boundary of the land. Clinghill Wood County Wildlife Site (ancient woodland) and Ashen Wood County Wildlife Site / priority habitat sit adjacent to the site boundary. The western facing escarpment of the North Wessex Downs AONB (located approximately 2km east of the site) forms part of the landscape setting and character of the area. A total of 7 PRoWs criss-cross the site option. The eastern boundary of the site adjoins the A342. The A342 undulates passing through Sandy Lane and Derry Hill to the north of the site option.


Assumptions for site option It is possible that only part of C18 may be considered suitable for sand extraction, subject to further assessments. Site option C18 would require new access to the A342 which could potentially prove problematic. Production would be expected to occur at a rate of approximately 50,000 – 100,000 tonnes but an upper level of 200,000 tonnes per annum should be assumed as worst case scenario. Assumed annual production16



50,000 - 200,000 tonnes 15 - 20+ years 10 - 40 Road traffic data 05415. Road Traffic Accidents EZ374/09. Location: A342, approximately

220m N of entrance to Rowdeford School, Bromham. Time: 0930. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling N failed to negotiate R/H bend, lost control, left carriageway to nearside and collided with tree. 1 casualty.

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EZ459/10. Location: A342, 220m N of entrance to Rowdeford School, Bromham. Time: 0104. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling N has for unclear reasons lost control on right hand bend, left carriageway to nearside and collided with tree. 5 casualties. EZ187/08. Location: A342, outside No.210, St Edith’s Marsh, Rowde. Time: 0527. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling S failed to negotiate R/H bend, lost control, left carriageway to nearside, collided with telegraph pole and overturned. 1 casualty.

Network A342 is part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Increase in congestion through Devizes, traffic impact on two schools along A342

(Rowde School and Rowdeford School), school children crossing road and access to bus stops.

• The A342 is used as a main route for emergency vehicles; traffic could reduce response times in wider area.

• Noise from on-site vehicles and HGVs travelling to and from site. • Although the local roads do not feature highly on the EuroRAP report, they are locally

considered to be accident-prone, and have a poor record over the last four years; A3102 (junction with A342 and Melksham) – 16, with 13 slight and 3 serious injuries; A342 (Browfort to Derry Hill) – 46, with 13 slight and 3 serious injuries and 2 fatalities.

• Rowde ‘S’ bend along A342 (at national speed limit) dangerous, particularly for wider vehicles and in poor driving conditions, site is in vicinity of existing accident black spot (either side of infill site), safety issues along A342 route, both north and south.

• Challenging and narrow areas include Derry Hill, the village of Sandy Lane, and St Edith’s Marsh to Rowde. It is speculated that none of these places lend themselves to being widened due to the topography or structures already on or by the roads.

• The steep and bending Dunkirk Hill into Devizes is highlighted as problematic, where traffic jams are already common (particularly on Thursdays and Fridays) due to junction with A361.

• The driving conditions here are poor (particularly during winter), poor visibility around junctions with Sandy Lane, difficulties in HGV passing close to West End Farm.

• Potential for lorries to cut-through via B3101 (Marsh Lane). This would be inappropriate for HGVs as the road has a dangerous bend (on national speed limit) and narrows on the canal bridge (old weight limit 10 tonnes). This road leads onto the A361 (Caen Hill).

• The site access point onto the A342 is likely to be hazardous, as there are limited options to where the entrance could be located, additional traffic exacerbate difficulties in getting out of Chittoe.

• The A342 road surface is poor in places, poor state of footpaths along A342 and lack

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of paths along A3102. • Increased vehicular traffic likely to make it more difficult for horse riders to cross

between bridleways. • A342 North – Derry Hill (steep and narrow – as it meets A4 near Chippenham) or

through Lacock (listed village/narrow passing point). • Poor drainage in St Edith’s Marsh can result in the accumulation of large puddles

following heavy rain – leads to dangerous avoiding manoeuvres. • Durlett Road weight limit/single track in places – which could be used as an

unsuitable shortcut. • Questions as to whether A342 in on primary route and the cost of upgrading roads. • Development on the site would lead to increased (HGV) traffic which the local road

network could not cope with. It is suggested that site C18 will result in an additional 84 HGVs per day. If 22 tonne HGVs are used and the extraction period is halved then there would be four times as many additional HGVs. Concerns that infill with waste would result in additional 126 HGVs per day.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Concerns about promoting HGV traffic to continue south through Rowde Devizes to continue southbound journeys. The A342 would not be considered a particularly good example of a freight route even though it is designated as such. The road would probably require significant improvements if the level of HGV traffic increase and would prove very unpopular with local communities. It is possible to achieve a suitable access to A342 as the site has a long frontage. However I have concerns about the suitability of A342 to accommodate the traffic that would be generated by any quarrying. These concerns relate to the narrow section through Derry Hill, the sections through the intermediate villages of Sandy Lane and Rowde and the junction in Devizes at the top of Dunkirk Hill. Traffic heading SW will also need to pass through Calne town centre. New access possible? Yes – problematic. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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5. Site options within the South East of Salisbury Mineral Resource Zone

Introduction Quarrying has taken place in the south east of Salisbury area for several decades. Current activity is focussed at Brickworth quarry on a relatively small scale. Of the three site options in this area two would be worked directly as extensions to Brickworth Quarry. The third, even if worked as an extension to Brickworth, would very likely need new access to the A27.

Site Option SE1 – SE3 Size (ha): 54.1 Context

These three site options lie in proximity to Brickworth Quarry, to the south west of the village of Whiteparish (a conservation area). The areas of land are in close proximity to the A36. Site option SE1 is located between the A36 (southern boundary) and A27 (northern boundary) and is approximately 450m west of the village of Whiteparish. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is typically classified as Grade 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. Site options SE2 and SE3 are located to the south of the A36, adjacent to Brickworth Quarry. The land is predominantly used for a mix of forestry and agricultural uses. Some of the land is also classed as County Wildlife Sites / Ancient Woodland. Site option SE2, which is approximately 100m east of SE3, is approximately 1km to the south west of Whiteparish and approximately 300m north of the New Forest National Park. There are a number of properties located in proximity to the eastern boundary of site option SE2 at Newton. There is a PRoW which runs through SE2 and another that runs adjacent to the eastern boundary of site option SE3.

Northings: 123300 Eastings: 423200 Resource type: Soft sand Current use: agricultural/managed woodland Estimated resource yield: 3,228,750 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Site options SE1 – SE3 would be expected to act as extensions to operations at Brickworth Quarry. Extraction would not take place at these sites simultaneously. Assuming that linking site option SE1 to Brickworth Quarry via conveyor will prove problematic it is likely that new access for this site to the A27 will be required. Production would be expected to occur at a rate of approximately 50,000 – 100,000 tonnes per annum in line with existing permitted levels.

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50,000 - 100,000 tonnes 20+ years 10 - 20 Road traffic data Trunk Road data available from HA. Road Traffic Accidents EU057/11. Location: A36 near crossroads,

Newton, Whiteparish. Time: 0800. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling NE pulled out onto main road turning right. V2 (M/C) travelling SE at speed was unable to avoid V1 colliding with rear of V1 displacing rider. V3 (Car) travelling NW collided with V2 but not rider of V2. 1 casualty. EU369/08. Location: A36, 560m NW of A27, Whiteparish. Time: 1245. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling SE for no apparent reason lost control displacing rider. 1 casualty. EU134/08. Location: A27 Whiteparish, Salisbury. Time: 2020. Accident description: V1 and V2 (both cars) travelling NW on A27, V2 in front. Deer ran into carriageway and struck rear of V2, then front of V1m going through windscreen of V1 and hitting driver. 1 casualty.

Network A36 is part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism A27 Whiteparish 77th in Priority List.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Accessibility issues to site SE1. Potentially hazardous access point onto A36 Trunk

Road – which attracts significant tourism traffic. • Potential for dangerous overtaking of slow haulage trucks on A36. Impact of HGV

traffic should be restricted as far as possible to the Strategic Road Network and the Local Lorry Route Network.

• Site also adjacent to A27. This road is currently subject to routeing restrictions in and out of Brickworth Quarry – potential use of A27 considered to be unacceptable for residents of Whiteparish (south west of site SE1).

• The roads around Whiteparish are narrow, which could lead to congestion and road safety issues if used by HGVs travelling to and from the site.

• Agreed vehicle movements of 102 HGV movements per day around Whiteparish which also preclude simultaneous working of all three sites (SE1, SE2, SE3).

• Residents against use of additional traffic lights and roundabouts to deal with traffic in the area.

• Site is in relatively close proximity to the boundary of Hampshire (approximately 1.85km at closest point). Hampshire County Council request that LGVs accessing

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the site use A36 rather than A27 – and expect a Lorry Routing Agreement to establish this.

• Weight limit on roads in northern New Forest area. The B3078, B3079 and B3080 (used as short cuts to the M27/A31) should be avoided.

• Requirement for Transport Assessment Study.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments SE1 - This does present serious road safety issues, but the number of lorry movements at, say 20 per day, is not high or particularly significant. I feel the A36 does not lend itself to a suitable location for an access and a safe access for slow moving lorries would and should include a ghost island right turn lane junction on a road with such high volumes of traffic. I feel the A36 is therefore not appropriate but final say is with Highways Agency and I have not sought their opinion. Equally, the site frontage to the A27 is only some 185m according to the scale and significant sight lines of 4.5m x 215m are required on this high speed road. A right turn lane is not required in this instance. I can confirm that a check of the site frontage shows that, although very tight, an access could be provided with the required splays. If movements remain low and S106 routing can be enforced, the site should not be discounted. SE2 and SE3 - continuation of use of existing access - clearly no problem. New access possible? SE1 – potentially unsafe.

SE2 and SE3 – existing access at Brickworth suitable.

Suitability of road network A36 suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? SE1 – No.

SE2 and SE3 – Yes.

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6. Site Options within the Salisbury Avon Mineral Resource Zone

Introduction This area has been subject to local very small scale extraction in the past. A planning application was submitted on land at Petersfinger in 1948 for sand and gravel extraction. The application was refused on the grounds that the access to the A36 would be unsuitable. Both site options would need to access and use the A36 for the transport of minerals.


Site Option SA1 (including additional land put forward during consultation) Size (ha): 19.4 Context

The site option is located in close proximity to the city of Salisbury, and comprises largely urban land uses to the north and west, characterised by residential areas, retail uses and a new park and ride. Agricultural uses are predominant to the east and south of the site. The site option is currently in agricultural use, although there is an existing sewage treatment facility located adjacent to the south west boundary of the land. There are sensitive receptors (including residential buildings) in proximity to the site option. Part of the site lies within Petersfinger Farm Meadows County Wildlife Site and in proximity to East Harnham Meadow SSSI. Part of the southern boundary of the site is marked by the River Avon (a SAC). The A36, which forms part of the Primary Route and HGV Route Network, is adjacent to the northern boundary of the site. To the west is a traffic light control junction for the park and ride facility and immediately to the east the road bends along the A36.

Northings: 128900 Eastings: 416300 Resource type: Sand and gravel Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 1,350,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Production would be expected to occur at a rate of approximately 100,000 – 200,000 tonnes per annum. However, if it were to prove beneficial to the community to progress at a greater rate to reduce the period of quarrying an upper production rate of 350,000 tonnes per annum will need to be taken into consideration. Assumed annual production18



100,000 - 200,000 tonnes 4 - 13 years 20 - 67

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Road traffic data 558 HGV’s in 12 hour period Spring 2010 count data.

Road Traffic Accidents None reported. Network A36 is part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Traffic on A36 near Petersfinger often generates a bottleneck several miles back. • Other consultees suggested that the operations would have only a marginal effect on

the current traffic problems and that site entrance could easily be located by the traffic lighted junction - although gaining access to the sewage works road could be an obstacle to this (intervening land is very wet and boggy).

• New development in the area needs to mitigate traffic increase by creating walking and cycling routes along the Southampton road.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Further congestion in this area would be a concern. Traffic signal controlled cross road junction has just been commissioned for Park and Ride but this junction would require significant modification for the new site access. The extra movements would, only make a highly sensitive location more difficult for traffic management and I feel that there will be serious concern raised by the Agency. Saying that, their position could be ameliorated, but only with a very significant junction improvement scheme. I do not concur that this development should include improved walking and cycling. As an aside, it proves difficult to refuse development on capacity grounds alone and Lidl now operate alongside Tesco, nearby, but the A36 does become gridlocked and there is a point where additional development simply cannot be accommodated. I do not think this site would be that development due to its potential scale. I interpret 70 two way trips as meaning 140 movements, say 14 per hour + additional trips by personnel, making this site highly sensitive. New access possible? No. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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Site Option SA2 Size (ha): 63.9 Context

The site option is located approximately 3.5km south east of Salisbury. The area is rural in character, enclosed within the Salisbury Avon Valley. Part of the landscape is recognised for its historic value with the designation of Longford Castle (Grade 2*) Historic Park and Garden which is located to the north west of the site option. The site is approximately 750m east of the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB. The land is sited approximately 200m from the River Avon (SAC) in places, and part of the River Avon (South County Wildlife Site) runs through the southern part of the site. The site option is currently occupied by agricultural uses on land which is classified as Grades 3 and 4 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. Fishing lakes are located to the south of the land and there are also some properties to the south and east of the site. The site option is in proximity to the A338 Primary Route and HGV Route Network although access to this road would need to cross the River Avon. The site could potentially be linked to the A36 (also on the Primary Route and HGV Route Network) using a 1.7km existing farm track as a haul road. Quarry traffic would need to cross Witherington Road to access the potential haul road. The haul road itself climbs eastwards, passing through areas of open countryside containing isolated patches of woodland.

Northings: 125600 Eastings: 418000 Resource type: Sand and gravel Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield:

• 2,000,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Based on estimates provided by a developer production would be expected to occur at a rate of approximately 150,000 tonnes per annum. Based on the landowner proposal minerals HGVs will need to cross the Witherington road and utilise a haul road to emerge at Whaddon near Alderbury. HGVs would join the A36 using the Alderbury junction. Assumed annual production19



150,000 - 200,000 tonnes 10 - 13 years 29 - 67 Road traffic data A36 ATC Count A3 Q4/2010.

12 hr 5 Day average long vehicles over 5.2 meter length (including buses) = 1924.

Road Traffic Accidents EU245/09. Location: C336 Witherington Road, J/W C336 Tunnel Hill, Alderbury. Time: 1117. Accident description: V1 (Ped/C) travelling N, went to turn right at junction and turned into path of V2 (Car) travelling S. V2 collided with V1. 1 casualty.

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EU006/08. Location: Junction of C324 Clarendon Road and Marshfield Close, Clarendon Park. Time: 0814. Accident description: V1 (M/C) travelling N filtering through slow moving traffic. V2 (Car) travelling E turned right onto main road and collided with V1. 1 casualty.

Network C336 is not part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Concern about effect of increased traffic passing Whaddon Business Park on the

safety of entering and exiting the park as well as concern for the impact on local B roads and increased congestion on A35.

• Concern that water and mud on the road due to quarrying activity would be a hazard and could block drains.

• New development in the area needs to mitigate traffic increase by creating walking and cycling routes along the Southampton road.

• The proposed track into site is likely to subside and the proposed farm track to exit at Whaddon crosses a busy road. Access onto the A338 could also be problematic (would need to use Witherington Road and through Downton – neither route is considered to be suitable). The A338 is a busy road with high accident record (traffic use narrow New Forest lanes as rat runs). It was also noted that the National Cycle Route runs through the site.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Access through Whaddon Village from south borne traffic would be a concern. This is problematical. I am not content with the crossing of Witherington Lane. I feel there would have to be good reasons to pursue this site and full investigation of the implications for road safety would be required. I also suspect there are environmental issues around the access point which is close to a small business park and a public house. Again, around 70 two way trips = 140 movements per day and, this number is high in a sensitive location. I recall a previous submission for landfill was approved using this access and I recommend that the impact of that development is revisited - I believe the traffic movements were lower for a much smaller time period. I would, however, find it difficult to raise a highway objection to the access point on purely road safety grounds. I might, however, raise concern about the crossing of the back road - Transport assessment necessary. New access possible? Extremely problematic. Suitability of road network Unsuitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

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7. Site options within the Bristol Avon Mineral Resource Zone


Site Option BA4 Size (ha): 33.3 Context

The site option is located approximately 500m north east of the linear village of Beanacre, 600m south of Lacock and approximately 2km north of the town of Melksham. The south east border of the site option is in close proximity to Halfway Farm and Riverside Farm. The site is currently occupied by agricultural use on land which is classified as Grades 2 and 3 Best and Most Versatile agricultural land. Land adjacent to the western boundary of the site is currently used recreationally as a fishing lake. Inwood (County Wildlife Site) and two areas of ancient woodland are located within the site. The course of a Roman road runs east-west through the land with a PRoW partially following the road’s course. There is evidence of past mineral working and restoration on the land. Sand and gravel extraction is believed to have taken place on part of the site and land adjacent to the site during the 1970s. The River Avon (a CWS) runs in proximity to the eastern boundary of the site option and is approximately 100m from the site at its closest point. The eastern boundary of the site is adjacent to the A350 which is part of the Primary Route Network and HGV Route Network. The A350 is an arterial route for traffic heading south into Dorset.

Northings: 167500 Eastings: 391100 Resource type: Sand and gravel Current use: agricultural Estimated resource yield: 500,000 tonnes

Assumptions for site option Production should be assumed to take place at a rate of approximately 50,000 – 100,000 tonnes per annum. Assumed annual production20



50,000 - 100,000 tonnes 5 - 10 years 10 - 20 Road traffic data ATC Count J5 Q4/2010.

12 hr 5 Day average long vehicles over 6.5 meter length (including buses) = 1568.

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Road Traffic Accidents EF067/09. Location: Junction of A350 and C155 Melksham Road, Lacock. Time: 1400. Accident description: V2 (M/C) travelling S on main road. V1 (Car) waiting at junction to turn right. V1 turned right into main road, causing V2 to collide with the rear offside of V1. Rider of V2 thrown over V1 onto nearside verge. 1 casualty. EF295/08. Location: A350, 100m S of C155 Melksham, exit slip road from Lacock. Time: 0104. Accident description: V1 (Car) travelling S at speed lost control for unknown reasons, left carriageway to nearside and collided with tree. 1 casualty.

Network A350 is part of Advisory Network. Freight Assessment Priority Mechanism Not applicable.

Summary of key issues raised during consultation • Village of Beanacre suffers from high density of traffic along A350, which would be

exacerbated by quarrying proposals and HGV movements – congestion and safety issues.

• Potential disruption to cycleway between Chippenham and Lacock.

Wiltshire Council Transport and Highways Teams’ Comments Strong objection would be expected from Beanacre residents. I do not consider that it would be possible to provide a suitable,safe access to this site which is located on the inside of a bend on A350. New access possible? No – not safe. Suitability of road network Suitable. Extension to nearby quarry possible? No.

Wiltshire and Swindon Aggregate Minerals Site … and Swindon Aggregate Minerals Site Allocations...

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