The meeting was held via Teams and attended by Vanessa, Jenny and Chris.
Updates
Mineral extraction restarted on 28 May and completed on 5 July 2024 with enough mineral for processing over the next few months.
The next phase is stripping of Area E2 which is expected to commence in early August 2024 but will update once plans confirmed.
It was reported that the haul road conditions were much better since regular maintenance has been carried out on the permissive path crossing.
Nature Reserve Aftercare
The footpath along the Nature Reserve has been widened as agreed with the Council. Grass cutting has been carried out and essential vegetation management has been undertaken in the operational areas of the site.
Signage at Aldborough Hatch Nature Reserve – this is part of the new signage and will take time to organise. Jenny requested the ‘No barbeques, fires etc’ sign be erected as soon as possible as this is a potential hazard
Area E1
Works have not yet finished. It is understood that E1 will finish and start in E2 in 2025.
Footpath 94 Diversion
Jenny said that feedback from numerous people walking along the footpath on the proposed diversion expressed concerns on safety when using the diverted footpath alone and where no one can be seen. Also concerns about anti-social behaviour in remote hidden areas. Local feeling is rather than have a diversion route which is not wanted, money could be diverted from creating it to improving the Aldborough Road North path and also the permissive bridleway at the Equestrian Centre. The alternative route to the railway station would be along this route or via Oaks Lane/Sainsbury’s.
Chris asked about linking the pathway on to Painters Road as some people may want to get on to Hainault Road but would find it difficult as the sides of Painters Road are quite overgrown. It was confirmed the possibility to expand the allotments is being looked at and that it may be possible for crossing Painters Road to be worked into this at the same time.
Laybys by Aldborough Road North have been covered in to prevent fly tipping.
Next meeting to be held 10/9/24.