BAA calls for Government action
British Aggregates Association urges Government to act to boost quarrying and construction growth
THE British Aggregates Association (BAA) has today urged the UK Government to actively facilitate improved communication and stronger collaboration between statutory bodies, including HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Environment Agency, local authorities, and other regulatory entities. The call aims to support significant growth within the quarrying sector and subsequently drive robust development in construction projects across the country in 2025 and beyond.
The quarrying industry is vital to the nation’s infrastructure, providing essential materials for housing, roads, and critical infrastructure projects. However, the industry frequently encounters unnecessary regulatory hurdles and fragmented communication among statutory bodies, which slows progress and significantly affects the sector’s ability to contribute fully to economic growth.
The BAA highlights the need for a streamlined, co-ordinated approach that ensures clarity, reduces bureaucracy, and promotes a more efficient and responsive regulatory environment. It says enhanced communication and collaboration will not only improve compliance and environmental outcomes, but will also stimulate innovation and investment in sustainable quarrying practices.
Additionally, the BAA stresses the necessity of proper permitting processes, including an accurate and comprehensive understanding of permitted reserves and the available land bank. This clarity will ensure long-term operational stability, resource security, and confidence in businesses' investments and expansions.
The Government has set an ambitious target of building 320,000 new homes annually, highlighting the essential role the quarrying sector must play in achieving this goal by supplying the critical raw materials needed for construction.
Mike Phillips, chief executive officer of the British Aggregates Association, said: ‘The UK’s quarrying sector is ready to rise to the challenge of significantly contributing to the Government’s housing and infrastructure ambitions. However, success hinges on streamlined permitting, clear regulatory frameworks, and improved inter-agency collaboration and communication. The Government must act swiftly to remove barriers and foster an environment conducive to sustainable growth.
‘To achieve the ambitious construction targets set by the Government, it’s essential that all regulatory agencies work together. By facilitating clearer pathways for communication, proper permitting processes, and reducing operational friction, the quarrying sector can unlock its full potential and significantly contribute to the UK’s economic growth and sustainability goals.’
The BAA urges the Government to prioritize better communication in 2025, ensuring the quarrying and construction sectors can deliver maximum value to communities through housing, infrastructure, and the broader UK economy.
