What is the earliest that the Assembly Secretary expects to be in a position to make an announcement on her decision in relation to the applications to dredge sand off the Nash and Helwick Banks in the Bristol Channel? (WAQ5178)

What timescale can the Assembly offer in relation to the consideration of applications seeking approval to dredge sand off the Helwick Bank and the Nash Bank in the Bristol Channel? (WAQ5179)

Sue Essex: Llanelli Sand Dredging Ltd are seeking to vary a condition attached to an existing licence restricting the yearly take of sand from Helwick Bank. It is not possible to be precise about timing for the reasons given in WAQ5187. In terms of Nash Bank, three companies are seeking new licences to dredge to run from the date of the expiry of their current licences in February 2001. To do this they need to obtain a positive Government View from the Assembly, following procedures introduced in June 1998 called "New Arrangements for the Licensing of Minerals Dredging". A Coastal Impact Study and an Environmental Statement have been prepared and consulted on by the applicants. These, and consultees’ responses, have recently been passed to the Assembly. Officials now need to consult interested parties again, as well as scrutinise and assess the technical reports, and examine data collected in respect of coastal and marine monitoring undertaken to date. There is also a requirement to consult the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, and to determine whether or not the issues involved would benefit from a hearing or inquiry. These are not light matters. They will take many months to pursue. At the end of the process a decision will be taken, but it is not possible to be definite about timing.

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