Firm defends plans over Wenlock Edge quarry's future
A company looking to develop a quarry on Wenlock Edge says it will not damage protected areas if its plans are given the green light by officials.
Edge Renewables said it also planned to create a visitor centre containing background information about the Lea Quarry North's link to geology and renewable energy if its bid for the site is accpeted.
The company is battling with the National Trust to take over the quarry after both submitted bids to owners Aggregate Industries.
Edge's retrospective planning application would see the site changed from quarrying limestone to providing renewable energy by supplying wood chip and biomass fuel to local agricultural, commercial and domestic customers.
The National Trust is also hoping to buy Lea Quarry South and Lilleshall Quarry to turn it into a nature and conservation area.
Managing director Simon Lloyd-Jones said: "Edge Renewables, whilst operating a business out of the Lea North Quarry, fully intends to manage the quarry responsibly.
"It refutes the National Trust's claim the activities carried out will damage the Sites of Special Scientific Interest or seriously affect the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it is partially in.
"Whilst ownership and the ability to implement such a scheme is not clear, we feel given the uncertainty it is important to inform the community what our plans for the site are away from the centralised quarry buildings."
He said the scheme would open up the canyon area, between Coates and Lea quarry, to the public.
It would also include opening and extending the footpath along the north edge of the quarry, protecting the developing rich flora existing in the quarry and allowing authorised geological visits to the site.
He said: "We will also develop bridleways and disabled access where possible.
"Our plans, contrary to National Trusts accusations, have been considered as being a lesser impact to the surrounding area.
"Public access will be similar but free and the company is appointing an ecologist to manage the site and ensure the SSSI and AONB interests are protected."
