Plan to extend cement plant may create 230 jobs

Plans have been submitted to expand an existing quarry in the Peak District National Park, potentially creating hundreds of jobs.

Breedon Hope Cement Works has applied to the Peak District National Park Authority for permission to dig 13 million tonnes of limestone from the surrounding area.

The proposed plans, which also include potential space for a small solar farm, could see more than 230 jobs brought to the Hope area.

A public consultation into the planned expansion had mostly positive feedback but some people have raised concerns about its impact on nearby homes and the environment.

The plans would see the company continue limestone extraction until at least February 2042.

More than 80% of respondents to the consultation agreed the site provided local jobs and supported local businesses.

However, some people raised concerns about HGV traffic from the plant as the closure of Snake Pass had already caused the re-routing of traffic through Bradwell village.

The firm stated in planning documents that the expansion was not expected to see an increased level of traffic above the existing levels already caused by the site.

The documents also state consultants have recommended the cement company transition to creating CEM II, a lower-carbon, eco-friendly cement, at the site by 2035 and transition to net zero by 2050.

The company has said it plans to increase wildlife habitat areas nearby to makeup for any lost in the expansion.

A decision on the proposals is expected to be made on 9 April.

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