[OFFICIAL]
This test has already been met for the Woodsmith Project, through the rigorous technical, consultation and assessment exercise undertaken in 2014 culminating in permission being granted in 2015. The resolution approved by Planning Committee members concluded that:
This decision is based on Members concluding:
a) that the potential economic benefits from the proposal represent a transformational opportunity for the local and regional economy;
b) that the likelihood of establishing a global market for polyhalite fertiliser is such that Phase 2 production levels will be achievable, resulting in economic benefits that are significant at a national level; c) that the innovative nature of the mine design and associated landscaping result in an acceptable reduction in the long term environmental impacts of the development;
d) that there was no realistic scope for locating the development elsewhere outside the designated area.
e) Members attach greater weight to these benefits than the environmental impacts during the construction period and the long term harm to the special qualities of the National Park at the minehead site and consider that:
f) the proposal represents exceptional economic circumstances which outweighs the extent of the conflict with the Development Plan;
g) therefore, the public interest lies in approving the application.
2.36 The proposed amendments to the Woodsmith Project reinforce alignment with the original reasons for approval, while the additional technical and engineering work that has taken place in the intervening decade demonstrate that the effects of the Project on the local economy are even larger than Quod previously projected.
Strong alignment with social and economic objectives at every level of government
2.37 The Project has strong alignment with social and economic objectives at every level of government:
Attracting International Investment in UK industry
Driving Growth in Agri-tech and UK’s global fertiliser production status
Quod | Woodsmith Project | Economic Impact Report | March 2026
17
Powered by FlippingBook