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Search forQuarry firm warned over dust incident
Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 10:03
The Environment Agency took action against Hanson Aggregates this week after residents complained of dust coating their cars, windows and properties in the summer.
The Cheddar Valley Gazette revealed there were concerns over what appeared to be an increased amount of dust coming from Batts Combe Quarry on June 9.
The quarry confirmed a mechanical fault in its lime kiln had caused the excess dust.
The Environment Agency has now finished its investigation and confirmed the company breached its Environmental Permit.
The company has been issued with a formal warning and the agency is now working with them to make further improvements to the site.
The Health Protection Agency responded to residents' health fears about the dust and said it was unlikely that the incident had an effect on public health.
Environment Agency spokesman Colin Babb said: "We are determined to ensure Hanson Aggregates improve the conditions for local residents and the environment.
"We will continue our monitoring and regular checks of the site to ensure the site is meeting its permit conditions."
Hanson Aggregates communications manager David Weeks said: "The dust was caused by a mechanical failure in the kiln and the agency were very complementary about the actions we had taken in investigating and putting things in place to prevent it happening again.
"But obviously it was in breach of our permit and they were duty bound to warn us but did not want to take things further."
The agency said anyone who suffers dust problems from the site should report them on 0800 80 70 60.
What effect did the dust have on you or do you think a warning is enough? Send your opinions to the Editor, Cheddar Valley Gazette, Southover, Wells, BA5 1UH or email editor@midsomnews.co.uk.
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