QUARRY PROPOSAL UPDATES
15th April 2026
19 March 2026
Latest News
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You only have until the 26th April to Object!
We need the maximum number of residents to register objections. Don't forget you can make a separate objection on each of the different concerns you have, for example one objection on the harm caused by dust inhalation, another on HGV movements, etc. Click on the Help bar above or go to the Quarry pages for further guidance on how to object.
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There are still some problems when using the KCC online portal to make objections, however if you are advised of an error, hitting the back arrow and re-submitting seems to work. You can also submit your objections by email to planning.applications@kent.gov.uk quoting the reference KCC/TM/0116/2025. ​​
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On the 9th of March 2026 the Ryarsh Protection Group (RPG) was informed that Bowyers Field Developments (aka Borough Green Sandpits) has submitted a formal planning application and Environmental Statement (ES) for development of a Quarry on Land West of Roughetts Road. Many of you will be aware that an Information Brochure on the development was published two years ago and many of you will have responded with comments as part of a consultation process. The planning application can be viewed in full on the KCC Planning portal https://www.kentplanningapplications.co.uk/Planning/Display/KCC/TM/0116/2025
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The proposed development is for the extraction of a large quantity of sand for a period of a minimum of 14 years. This is followed by a 5 year period of 're-instatement' of the land to roughly it's current aspect, but with as little enhancement to biodiversity that the company can legally 'get away with'.
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The impact on the local community if this development goes ahead will be devastating: 100 HGV movements per day, 6 days a week , early morning to evening, are predicted for the operational life of the quarry. The air will be polluted with fine particulate matter (silica sand) with its well understood adverse health implications, the roads will be covered in sand (you will have seen the state of the roads along the A25 leading into Borough Green) and there will be the significant impact of noise during the works.
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This threat is present and real.: please do not assume this is just 'going to go away again'- the developers have invested heavily in time and money in the preparation of the Planning Application and Environmental Statement. The RPG and Parish Council are working hard to oppose this application but we need your help and the best way to do this is to object to the application.
For full information on how you can object please go to the Quarry / How You Can Help area of this website. Please note that you can make multiple objections on specific points on the Environmental Statement and the RPG will assist you, via this website, on how to do this. You must not mention impact on property value: your objection will be discarded if you do- unfair I hear you say, maybe, but that's the way it is.
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The Benefits of Nature are at risk
“Having more green space (parks, trees, forests, gardens and fields) in your local environment is linked with better overall health”
– Dr Rangan Chatterjee, Feel Better In 5
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It’s wonderful to see a growing number of residents using the local footpaths for their daily exercise, and being able to enjoy the wonderful countryside.
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Top tip - April 2026
Currently we recommend taking a walk to see The Roughetts ancient woodland and the beautiful bluebells out in bloom there. It won’t be long before they are dormant again so see them while you can! Please remember that bluebells are a protected species so please don’t pick them.
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Share your photos
Our aim is to shine a bright light on our beautiful countryside and community. We would love it if you can share your photos. Whether they're from your daily exercise, something you've snapped on a walk, cycle or a run, a view from your home or even your dog enjoying his exercise!. You can share your photos with us on our Facebook or Twitter, or tag us in your photos on Instagram! Note this might not actually work just yet but trust me I'm working on it
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Protect Your Home-Protect Your Health-Protect Your Countryside
​​End of Consultation
27th April 2016​​
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About Us
The Ryarsh Protection Group (RPG) is an action group working alongside Ryarsh Parish Council and surrounding communities, comprising local residents from Ryarsh.
We are here to help you, your family and our community with local issues. Our priority currently is to continue with the objection campaign to the proposed ‘West Malling Sandpit’ / Ryarsh Quarry and to save and protect our community.
The RPG supports Ryarsh and surrounding communities including Addington, Birling, Leybourne, Trottiscliffe, Snodland and West Malling
Information will be posted on a regular basis so please visit this website frequently and follow us on social media.
