Asheldham Quarry – Planning Permissions Granted

PDE recently submitted a planning application to Essex County Council (ECC) on behalf of G&B Finch Limited to allow for a southern extension to Asheldham quarry for the extraction, processing, sale and distribution of sand and gravel with subsequent restoration using inert materials.

Alongside this application PDE also submitted two section 73 applications seeking the variation of conditions attached to extant permissions at the quarry to allow for the continuation of existing operations in line with the timescales for the working and restoration of the southern extension. An amendment was also made to the approved quarry phasing to reflect a delay to the restoration of the plant site and water management lagoons which is required whilst the southern extension is worked and restored.

We are pleased to announce that on 26 June 2026 ECC’s Development and Regulation Committee voted unanimously in favour of the officer’s recommendation for approval for all three applications, subject to conditions and a deed of variation to the existing Section 106 Agreement. This this is great news for G&B Finch as the southern extension allows the release of much needed aggregate reserves to support local development and supports continued employment at the quarry.

Following completion of mineral extraction the extension area will be restored back to agricultural land and will deliver significant biodiversity net gain through tree and hedgerow planting and enhanced agricultural margins. This will complement the approved restoration for the wider quarry which seeks to deliver a mosaic of habitats and enhanced public access, benefitting the local community.