Hythe Quarry: Phase 1 complete

TJ has recently completed the dig of Phase 1 at Hythe Quarry and are now moving on to prepare the area for refill. The quarry is split into 3 phases, whereby each ‘phase’ will be quarried at different times. This will increase efficiency because as one phase of the dig completes, it can be refilled whilst the next phase is being quarried.

Since quarrying commenced 22 months ago, TJ has been extracting sand and ballast at different times depending on what stage and depth the dig is at. During that time, over 100,000 tonnes of material has been quarried and either sold, exported or stockpiled for future sale.

TJ’s next step is to complete the construction of the Artificial Geological Barrier, which is expected to take around two months. TJ will line the hole created by the quarrying using clay materials to ensure it is impermeable so that surface waters cannot drain through. It will then be signed off by the Environment Agency.

TJ has secured a permit so that from September, they can start the process of filling Phase 1 of the quarry, with the eventual aim of restoring it – and the entire site – to arable land. To ensure this outcome, TJ will only be filling the space with inert soil, which will promote growth in the future.

Construction sites in Hampshire and the surrounding counties are encouraged to get in touch if they have inert waste that they need to dispose of; TJ will come and collect for a very reasonable price – contact us for a quote.

Alongside the filling, TJ will also be starting on Phase 2 of the quarry dig. It is unknown how much of each of the two materials – sand and ballast – will be found beneath the surface, but it is expected that the majority of the Phase 2 material will be sand.

The sand that is extracted from Hythe is ideal for use as builder’s sand – for making materials such as plaster, mortar and cement. It can also be used for blinding, bedding and general fill. The ballast is a golden gravel and sharp sand mixture that is used for onward screening / washing, bedding and drainage fill.

TJ bought Hythe Quarry in 2017 after it was identified in the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Plan (2013) as ‘the best option for continuing a local supply of soft sand and sharp sand and gravel from this part of south Hampshire’.

TJ Director Jamie Higgins said: “The Hythe Quarry operations are going really well with Phase 1 of the quarrying now complete. Our sand and ballast have proved popular with the local construction and farming industries due to their versatility. It’s great to be able to source and supply our own materials to the industries that need them and we’re excited that we can now also provide our own outlet for inert soil disposal too.”

If you have inert soil that you need to dispose of in the Hampshire and surrounding areas, please get in touch for a quote. Our fleet of lorries can be on and off site quickly, taking care of your waste for you.

Find out more about Hythe Quarry and the related services TJ offers…