Lancashire minerals and waste plan opens for public comment

People across Lancashire are being invited to have their say on plans that will shape where minerals come from and how waste is managed in the county for years to come.

The review of the Joint Lancashire Minerals and Waste Local Plan is now open for consultation. It is being prepared by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Lancashire County Council and Blackpool Council, and will guide decisions on minerals and waste developments up to 2042.

Minerals planning covers making sure there are enough materials such as sand, gravel and stone for homes, roads, other infrastructure and manufacturing, while also identifying suitable places where they can be extracted responsibly.

Waste planning looks at where waste from homes, businesses and hazardous sources can be dealt with, while helping meet future waste management needs and protecting communities and the environment.

The consultation is asking for views on the draft plan before it goes to independent examination. Residents, businesses, community organisations, landowners and other interested parties can all comment.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Executive Member for Environment and Communities at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said: "Having an up-to-date plan helps ensure decisions about minerals and waste development are based on clear policies and robust evidence.

"I would encourage residents, community groups and businesses to take part in the consultation and share their views."

Comments can be made through the consultation website. All representations received will be considered before the plan is submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination.

The consultation closes on Sunday 1 November 2026. More information and the response form are available here: Have your say.