Clay pit dig will keep wildlife on the move

CLAY excavation at Ashdown Brickworks has been given the green light to continue for another 50 years - meaning the loss of more ancient woodland and habitat for bats and badgers.

A statutory county council review of the quarrying operation north of Turkey Road has not identified any environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated against by owners Ibstock.

The county council does not have the power to remove excavation rights but can impose environmental conditions providing they don't devalue the site or its economic viability.

But director of transport and environment Bob Wilkins says he is satisfied Ibstock has sufficient measures in place to minimise visual and environmental impact and leave the site suitably restored when the clay reserves are exhausted in 2050.

That is despite the fact the Little High Woods Site of Nature Conservation Interest will be lost as the two current pits are extended to make one giant quarry.

But the county council says Ibstock will need licenses from DEFRA and English Nature to make sure an alternative habitat is provided for the badger and bat populations.