Mineral Safeguarding Assessment

Roberts Environmental Mineral Safeguarding Assessment

Mineral Safeguarding Assessments provide a clear, expert assessment to navigate regulatory requirements relating to mineral safeguarding and unlock development. We review all relevant safeguarding and local authority policy, alongside detailed geological mineral mapping to assess possible constraints to a development and whether mitigation can be applied. We deliver concise advice on risks, opportunities and the justification for your development, ensuring informed decision-making and efficient progress through the planning process.

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01. Why consider Mineral Resources?

Local Authorities have a duty to protect mineral resources which may be of economic benefit and to ensure that future development does not sterilise these mineral assets. As such, areas have been mapped as safeguarded mineral assets. Whilst these areas can significantly restrict development, there are commonly cases where, with the right justification, these constraints can be lifted if it can be demonstrated that the benefits of developing the site outweigh the benefits of extracting the mineral resource. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires that a sufficient supply of minerals is maintained, recognising that they are finite and must be used efficiently. This is managed through mineral planning policies set out in Local and Mineral Planning Authorities’ Mineral and Waste Plans.

02. Desk Based Assessment

Following a review of all Local Authority mineral planning policy and associated resources relevant to your site, we compile this study into a desk‑based assessment. This involves identifying and quantifying the extent of any workable mineral resource based on published geological data, understanding local policy designations, and weighing up the benefits of development versus the utilisation of the mineral resource.

Ultimately, REL will seek to demonstrate that the benefits of the proposed development outweigh the benefits and value of extracting a mineral resource, satisfying relevant planning requirements

03. Advise and Planning Considerations

Once the resource assessment is complete, we evaluate the findings against applicable planning policy and provide clear advice on potential constraints, risks and opportunities. This includes consideration of:

Resource viability and whether extraction is realistic or commercially feasible.
Urban area designations and local planning policies that may affect future development.
Environmental sensitivities, including impacts related to dewatering, discharge arrangements or wider ecological constraints.
Access and transport implications associated with mineral excavation and vehicle movements.
The planning importance and justification for the proposed development, balanced against mineral safeguarding requirements.
Local market demand and potential economic value of any mineral present.