HAMPSHIRE County Council has agreed steps to further protect Hampshire’s environment while supporting the county’s economy.

Two Supplementary Planning Documents to the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan have been agreed and should be in place by January.

The Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan was formally adopted in 2013, meaning any future planning applications for minerals and waste development are to be assessed and determined on the basis of the policies within it.

The plan contains robust policies on safeguarding minerals resource and minerals and waste infrastructure as well as oil and gas development, providing a comprehensive framework for future minerals and waste development in Hampshire to 2030.

Councillor Seán Woodward, Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment at Hampshire County Council, said: “This is a strong plan designed to protect Hampshire’s environment while at the same time maintaining local communities and supporting the economy.”

The Supplementary Planning documents on Minerals and Waste Safeguarding, and Oil and Gas Development in Hampshire support the effective implementation of the policies within the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan.

Councillor Woodward went on to say: “Our approach is about ensuring the right development in the right place at the right time. The Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan plays a crucial role in protecting our environment and supporting communities. This supplementary information sets out very clear guidance to organisations on minerals and waste safeguarding issues as well as setting out clear expectations for oil and gas development in Hampshire.”

The Supplementary Planning Documents have been produced in partnership by Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council and the New Forest National Park Authority. Each of the partners has a statutory responsibility for minerals and waste planning in Hampshire.