A12 at Brockley Wood quarry approval slammed by councillor

Suffolk County Council's Development and Regulation Committee met on Tuesday morning to consider plans for a new quarry off the A12 at Brockley Wood, between Belstead and Bentley. 

During the meeting, several concerns were raised, including worries for the environmental impact and noise at the site, with the main issue being traffic management and the danger of lorries driving on the surrounding quiet lanes. 

Following a debate, six councillors voted in favour, two against and one abstained, meaning the plan was approved.

Cllr Christopher Hudson (Image: SCC)

Cllr Christopher Hudson, who represents Belstead Brook on Suffolk County Council and who spoke during in the meeting, said after the approval: "My immediate reaction is that I am extremely disappointed for the residents and anyone who uses the green lanes around Copdock and Bentley. 

"I am worried and concerned because if lorries do go up those roads it is a death trap."

On Tuesday, Neil Ward, acting on behalf of the applicant, said that all traffic would only use the A12 and this would be monitored at the site, with a liaison group also planned to include members of the community. 

Following a debate, six councillors voted in favour, two against and one abstained, meaning the plan was approved (Image: Bentley Parish Council)

Following the approval, angry cries erupted from the public gallery and one resident could be heard shouting "shame, absolute shame".

Cllr Hudson, who called the project an 'environmental catastrophe' during the meeting, said he can understand the level of anger from residents who live in the area and feel let down.

"People are not happy, the natives are not happy," he said.

"I am very disappointed for my constituents. It is not the end of the battle. I would not be surprised if this did end up in the High Court."