In September 2025 Dorset Council issued a Scoping Opinion response to Heidelberg Materials in relation to a proposed extension to the existing Hyde Pit sand & gravel quarry located near Wareham, Dorset.
The current Hyde Pit site covers approximately 40 hectares and comprises an active mineral extraction area, a processing facility and land currently being restored. The site operates under the most recent updated condition issued in 2011 for the continuation of mineral workings until February 2042.
The proposed development involves the extension of existing mineral workings into a 15-hectare area to the south of the quarry. The new extension is expected to release approximately 2 million tonnes of sand and gravel over a 10 to 15-year period.
Due to the size and characteristics of the proposal, the project is classified as a Schedule 2 development under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations. Therefore, any future planning application will require the submission of an Environmental Statement. As a result, the Scoping Opinion outlines the environmental topics that must be addressed in the planning process.
For those interested in detailed planning information and resources about sand & gravel production and related developments, the BDS Planning Portal service offers comprehensive access, review and monitoring of related planning schemes. For more information, visit the BDS website or contact BDS directly at contact@bdsmarketing.co.uk.