Nov 7 2006
A new framework setting out the Government's key policies and principles for minerals planning in England has been published today. Looking at challenges ahead for supply, it seeks to balance the needs of the UK's minerals industry while respecting the integrity of our environment and society.
Minerals Policy Statement 1 (MPS1), Planning and Minerals, is the overarching planning policy document for all minerals in England. It provides advice and guidance to planning authorities and the minerals industry and it will ensure that the need by society and the economy for minerals is managed in an integrated way against its impact on the environment and communities.
Also published with MPS1 is a Practice Guide, which sets out how the policies in the statement might best be implemented.
MPS1 includes annexes on four specific types of minerals:
- aggregates;
- brick clay;
- natural building and roofing stone; and
- onshore oil and gas.
Baroness Andrews, Lords Minister, in welcoming MPS1 said:
"The extraction of minerals can be a highly emotive issue for communities so it is important that planning authorities are given clear and straight forward guidance. MPS1 emphasises the protection of national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty - to help us safeguard the spots many of us hold dear".
"I hope that the Practice Guidance will offer valuable advice to planners across England on how MPS1 might best be implemented".
Posted 7th November 2006