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Project Overview
Client
Aggregate Supplier
Location
Staffordshire
Date Complete
2026
Sector
Industrial
An active sand and gravel extraction site operated by a major UK aggregates provider plays a key role in supplying construction materials for infrastructure schemes, drainage solutions, rail projects, and road building across the UK. The quarry supports both regional and national supply chains, producing approximately 1.4 million tonnes of aggregate each year.
In June 2025, the operator was granted planning permission for a 29‑hectare extension to the site, expected to deliver a further 2.8 million tonnes of material over a three‑year period. This extension will prolong the quarry’s operational lifespan through to 2028/29, ensuring continued supply to critical construction projects.
Alongside active extraction, the company is recognised as a leader in responsible quarry management and environmental stewardship. The quarry site has been undergoing a multi-phase restoration programme, transforming worked-out areas into a nature reserve and recreational landscape. Restoration has already delivered significant ecological benefits, including the creation of wetland habitats for rare bird species such as black-necked grebes, developed in partnership with ornithologists and a local bird club.
Public access is a key part of the long-term vision, with walking trails, observation points, and educational signage being introduced to encourage community engagement and environmental awareness. The local community has been closely involved through the local quarry liaison club, ensuring transparency and collaboration throughout both the operational and restoration phases.
As part of the approved quarry extension, the aggregate company was required to implement noise mitigation measures to minimise the impact of quarry operations on surrounding land, ecological habitats and nearby communities. This included the installation of high performance acoustic barriers along the northern, north-western and north-eastern boundaries of the site.
Challenge
Quarries present a complex set of challenges when it comes to noise control. Heavy plant, processing equipment, and vehicle movements generate sustained operational noise, making acoustic barriers for quarries a critical component of responsible site management and planning compliance.
At this quarry, the challenge was further compounded by the site’s environmental and geographical context. Located within a flood-sensitive area of the Trent Valley, the boundary fencing needed to be a static structure but accommodate potential floodwater flows without increasing flood risk, redirecting water flow or causing structural damage.
The approved planning proposal specified an acoustic fence ranging between 2.5 and 4.5 metres in height, installed along key site boundaries. However, unlike standard installations, the fencing could not create a solid obstruction at ground level but at the same time, still reduce noise. Any barrier that impeded water movement could exacerbate flooding or conflict with environmental regulations.
The client therefore required an acoustic fencing solution that could:
Off-the-shelf acoustic fencing systems were not suitable for these requirements. A bespoke solution was needed; one that balanced acoustic performance, environmental sensitivity, and operational practicality.
Jacksons Fencing was specified for the project due to its proven expertise in designing and manufacturing high quality acoustic barriers for quarries and other demanding industrial environments.
Working to the project requirements, we supplied a bespoke acoustic barrier system specifically tailored to the unique conditions at the quarry. The solution centred on a robust acoustic fence line, varying in height from 2.5 to 4.5 metres.
The defining feature of the design was the inclusion of custom-engineered ‘flap boards’ along the base of the acoustic barrier. These flaps were designed to address the site’s flood risk while maintaining the fence’s acoustic integrity.
Each flap was:
This innovative approach ensured that the acoustic barrier did not impede natural water flows during periods of flooding, while still providing continuous noise mitigation when the flaps were secured. The use of drop bolts allowed for straightforward operation and secure locking, ensuring safety and reliability on site.
The acoustic barrier system manufactured and supplied by Jacksons Fencing was designed for durability in a demanding quarry environment, offering long-term performance with minimal maintenance. It complemented the aggregate company’s broader environmental strategy by supporting responsible water management and protecting newly created habitats from excessive noise disturbance.
The completed acoustic barrier installation at the quarry successfully met all operational, environmental, and planning requirements. The bespoke design provides effective noise attenuation, helping to reduce the impact of quarry operations on surrounding land, wildlife, and the local community.
Crucially, the inclusion of the flap board system allows the fencing to function harmoniously within a flood-sensitive landscape, demonstrating how thoughtful design can resolve complex site constraints without compromise.
The project supports the aggregate supplier’s long-term vision for the quarry; balancing the ongoing supply of essential construction materials with environmental restoration, biodiversity enhancement and community engagement. By supplying a bespoke acoustic barrier system with integrated flood management features, Jacksons Fencing helped achieve compliance, protect sensitive environments, and maintain operational efficiency.
This quarry project stands as a strong example of best practice in the design and implementation of acoustic barriers for quarries, particularly where environmental challenges demand a flexible and forward-thinking approach.
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