Mineral resources can occur where the public road network is unsuitable for the volume of heavy traffic which mineral developments can generate. Where traffic from such a development would prejudice the safety and convenience of road users planning permission will normally be refused unless the roads can be satisfactorily improved. If the traffic using an access from a proposed mineral development would prejudice the safety and convenience of road users planning permission will normally be refused, unless a satisfactory access can be provided.

When considering applications for new mineral developments with access onto the main traffic route network, particular attention will be paid to the importance of the mineral to the economy of the area, alternative sources of the mineral, the availability of an alternative access and the suitability of the access having regard to the standards of sightlines, radii, gradients, etc.

Vehicles transporting materials from a mineral site may be directed to use particular routes in order to avoid environmental disturbance to people living adjacent to other roads in the locality. Where appropriate, conditions will be applied to prevent dirt on the wheels of vehicles being deposited on the public road.