Brick clay : issues for planning executive summary

Bricks are one of the most visible components of the built environment in our villages, towns and cities. Despite the importance of this building material, a number of critical issues face those involved in planning for the future supply of clay raw materials needed for its manufacture. Against a likely background of continued strong consumer demand for a wide range of bricks and related products, a combination of environmental concerns, commercial pressures and technological developments are changing the pattern of demand for brick clay. Through analysis of these trends, a number of recommendations are made for changes to the process that plans for the supply of brick clay. These aim to provide the brick industry with a sustainable supply of raw materials at the least cost to the environment.