In early-October 2004, our Society was alerted to Surrey County Council's updated Mineral Extraction Plan that had evaluated 107 new 'parcels of land' as Potential Mineral Zones (PMZs) in Surrey, assessed for their potential for mineral extraction. Of these, several areas were within Betchworth & Buckland. Two of these areas were 'recommended for inclusion in the Minerals Development Framework (MDF)' at this stage - though Surrey CC officials do not confirm that they will definitely be included.

PMZ 55 - Land South of Old Reigate Rd, Betchworth

PMZ 60 - Shag Brook, Buckland

If these areas are confirmed within the Surrey Minerals Plan following consultation, this means that during the period 2004-2016 (and likely beyond, by extension) - that if a mineral extraction company such as Hanson, Franks or one of their competitors, applied to open a new pit, that Surrey CC would grant permission.

At the moment, Hanson seem to be finding it difficult to work current local pits to capacity - but this situation may change - and if the market changes - the pit could be worked in future and may influence both our quality of life - with noise, traffic and 'more sand fallout from rain' for decades to come. This is in addition to the potential immediate knock-on effect on prices of property adjacent to the new areas.

For information on the Surrey County Council's 'SURREY MINERALS DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 2004-1016' that directly affect our villages, see the following link:

Link to Minerals Website of Surrey CC affecting Minerals in Buckland & Betchworth then click on PMZ60 (Buckland) or PMZ55 (Betchworth)

The map above shows the area of 'blight' from the recommendation of the report to continue mineral extraction plans. The initial consultation meeting at Ashcombe School on 24 October 2004 created headline news, such is the local objection.