Description
On 13 May 2025, Spence Aggregates Ltd registered the Spence Aggregates Quarry Expansion Project, Hants County for environmental assessment, in accordance with Part IV of the Environment Act.
The purpose of the proposed undertaking is to allow Spence Aggregates to expand the footprint at its existing approved quarry site at 126 Stark Road, near the community of Newport Station, Hants County, Nova Scotia (Parcel Identification Numbers: 45015484, 45015765, 45015773, 45015823, 45016011, 45282068). The project will expand the area of aggregate quarry from 4 hectares (ha) to 63 ha, to extend the life of the quarry. Work could start on the 59 ha expansion area within one year of approval and will extend over at least 30 years. Other than the increased size, the Project does not include an overall increase in production and will continue to operate as it has been per the existing Industrial Approval. The proposed operation and maintenance schedule for the Project is year-round, the same as for the existing quarry. Project activities include clearing and grubbing, blasting, crushing and stockpiling, and transportation of aggregate. Progressive reclamation activities will occur throughout the life of the project.
Minister's Decision
On 2 July 2025, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change released a decision (PDF) concerning this review. The Minister has decided to approve the undertaking in accordance with Section 13(1)b of the Environmental Assessment Regulations, pursuant to Part IV of the Environment Act. The undertaking has been approved subject to a number of conditions (PDF).
Project Documents
- Minister's Decision, Approval (PDF)
- Conditions (PDF)
- Comments EA Registration (PDF)
- Public Notice (PDF)
Registration
- Spence Aggregates Quarry Expansion EA Registration Document - Sections 1-4 (PDF)
- Spence Aggregates Quarry Expansion EA Registration Document - Sections 5-11 (PDF)
- Appendices (PDF)
Opportunities for Public Input
Public comments on the Registration were accepted until 22 June 2025.
All comments received from the public consultation are posted on the department's website for public viewing. In the case of an individual, the address, email and contact information will be removed before being placed on the website.