A gravel quarry proposed by an earthworks and excavation service could provide aggregates for 50 years if it starts production in 2035.
The quarry is based near Manawatū River, in Palmerston North, on the North Island of New Zealand, and the proponent, Hoult Contractors, is working with the local indigenous population – the Rangitāne o Manawatū – to reach an agreement.
According to the Stuff news service, the quarry may not begin operations until 2035 when Hoult exhausts its existing Forest Hill Road site. Hoult has proposed a 15-year delay before extraction begins.
Independent commissioner Mark St Clair heard the resource consent applications in early December.
The site is proposed to be leased back to its current owners for farming after 200,000 cubic metres of aggregate is extracted. It is expected the site will be rehabilitated.
Hoult surveyor and consultant Phil Pirie told Stuff it could be up to 25 years before the quarry is required, but it is vital to secure consents early in the process.
“It is important for the economic basis of the region that quarrying continues,” he said.
“My view is an acceptance that we have to have development, but in a way that does not cause a problem for the environment.”
According to Hoult, the quarry would not have significant visual impact as between four and six hectare portions would be dug at any time.