Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A landfill site at Lower Hare Farm in Whitestone, near Exeter, has been granted an environmental permit by the Environment Agency following a period of public consultation. The decision allows GRS Stone Supplies Ltd to proceed with plans to import inert soils and topsoil to the site over the next decade, with the aim of restoring the land for future agricultural use.
The scheme, first proposed in 2018, has faced significant opposition from local residents and environmental groups. More than 500 objections were lodged before Devon County Council approved the plans in 2020.
Concerns were raised about increased lorry movements, air and noise pollution, and the long-term effect on the rural landscape.
Despite this, the Environment Agency has ruled that the project meets all necessary legal and environmental standards.
Chris James, speaking on behalf of the Environment Agency, acknowledged the concerns raised but assured that strict regu…
