Bill · started in the Commons
Planning (Opencast Mining Separation Zones) Bill
A Bill to require planning authorities to impose a minimum distance between opencast mining developments and residential properties; and for connected purposes.
In progress
Current stage: 2nd reading (Commons)
The story so farThe Planning (Opencast Mining Separation Zones) Bill was introduced in the House of Commons on 30 June 2010 by Andrew Bridgen (Conservative). It is now at second reading in the House of Commons. Second reading is the first debate on the overall principle of the bill; if the bill clears it, detailed committee scrutiny follows.
What the bill does
<p>The Bill would require the Secretary of State to publish guidance on opencast mining policy in England. The guidance must include a specific policy requiring a 500-metre separation zone to be maintained between opencast mining sites and the nearest residential premises, unless the circumstances are exceptional.</p><p>It would require that mineral planning authorities in England must have regard to any such guidance issued when fulfilling their functions.</p><p>The Bill would bring the guidance on opencast mining in England more closely into line with the guidance that applies in Scotland and Wales.</p>
Progress through Parliament
- 1st reading Commons 30 Jun 2010
- 2nd reading Commons 11 Feb 2011
Source: the official bill page. Last updated 1 May 2012.