Restoration is required to make mineral workings fit for beneficial use and environmentally acceptable following extraction. The standard of restoration has generally improved in recent years and there are a number of uses to which sites can be restored. The preferred types of reclamation and after use depend on the characteristics of the deposits, nature of excavation, availability of fill materials, the surrounding landscape, the needs of the local community and the potential for nature conservation on the site.

Applications for the extraction of minerals must include satisfactory restoration proposals. Where practicable such proposals should provide for progressive restoration of sites.