WATA calling for explicit recognition of wash plants with National Planning Policy Framework

WATA welcomes changes to planning framework but calls for explicit recognition of wash plants...

The Washed Aggregates Trade Association (WATA) has welcomed several important changes contained within the Government's newly published National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

But the trade association is continuing to call for greater recognition of high-grade recycled aggregates produced through washing and processing, within the national policy.

The revised framework, which was published earlier this week (August 17th), strengthens several aspects of national minerals planning policy, including the reinstatement of the description of mineral supply as "essential" and a clearer recognition of the role that processing activities play within the wider minerals supply chain.

However, WATA believes there is still an opportunity to strengthen the explicit recognition of aggregate washing facilities and the infrastructure that supports the production of washed aggregates.

Andy Hill, CEO of WATA, said: "The Government has clearly listened to concerns raised by the minerals sector and has strengthened several important aspects of national minerals planning policy. The recognition that mineral supply remains essential to housing, infrastructure and economic growth is particularly welcome.

"Our members recover and process millions of tonnes of valuable construction materials every year, helping to reduce reliance on primary extraction and supporting a more circular approach to resource use.

“The amendments to the NPPF is progress, but it is unfinished business. While we welcome the direction of travel, we would still like to see aggregate washing facilities explicitly recognised within planning policy.

"The forthcoming review of national waste policy will provide a crucial opportunity to ensure that washed aggregates and the infrastructure that produces them receive the recognition they deserve. But we would also like to see that recognition reflected more explicitly within national minerals planning policy."

WATA will continue to work with policymakers to ensure that washed aggregates and the facilities that produce them are fully recognised within both waste policy and national minerals planning policy.