Quarry verdict soon?

The evidence stage finished on Monday when the final witness was local MP David Mundell.

He told the inquiry that he was “deeply disappointed” that Patersons had pursued their appeal despite the clear views of South Lanarkshire Council – which had twice refused planning consent – and the local community.

“The area is already facing very significant industrial development with the construction of the Clyde Wind Farm, as well as Mainshill and other open cast sites. If the appeal is successful, the cumulative scale of development would be too great for local communities to absorb,” he said.

The quarry would have a serious adverse impact on tourism, local anglers and, consquently, local businesses.

The Gazette understands that the Reporter to the Inquiry could make his findings known befiore the end of the year. For the full story, see this week’s Carluke and Lanark Gazette.