TWO controversial quarry plans in Somerset are set to be discussed at a meeting this week.
Ham & Doulting Stone Company Ltd have submit an application to extend Blackford Hill Quarry, near Sparkford.
The application states the company will extend the existing natural stone quarry to extract building stone in 'short campaigns' over 14 years.
But many residents are upset about the extension plans, saying they are concerned about the HGV's driving on Quarry Hill and Blackford Hollow.
One resident said: "There are regular walkers adults and children that use the route leading up to the quarry. There are several blind spots on route.
"Given that the narrow lanes are not equipped to manage regular 16 tonne lorries how can you reassure the safety of the local residents."
The planning application says there will be 'only two to four HGV movements per week' which will access the site from Quarry Hill Lane.
The second application set to be discussed by SCC, is for Batts Lane Quarry.
Clive Miller Planning Ltd has submit an application on behalf of Henry Ford to re-open the former Quarry at Batts Lane, Long Sutton.
The site would produce Blue Lias Limestone, which is used for walling, paving and building.
However, many people are upset about the plans and have set up a campaign group to protest against them, called Stop Batts Lane Quarry.
The group are concerned the location is too close to houses and the access is dangerous.
READ MORE: Plans to re-open former quarry on Batts Lane, Long Sutton
A spokesperson for the group said: "In fact, rather than showing definable benefits to the local community, the opposite would happen, if approved.
"Directly on the curtilage of the site is a large top end holiday let business which has just had approval to expand further with three large units adding another 30 beds to the existing 50+ beds currently offered. This business is now looking to double the size of its operation bringing in 9,000 tourists per year and employing 15 full time staff and contributing in excess of £1 million per year to tourism in Somerset.
"However, were the quarry to be approved it seems likely the planned expansion will not proceed as top end tourists do not need the added ‘extras’ of noise, dust, HGV traffic moments, alongside the potential of serious health risk posed from the contaminated land.
"In addition, there are significant highways safety issues and site access, the proximity to residential homes (and the proposed new holiday lets) to the north, east and south, the fact the applicant has failed to submit a noise survey and the inability to access the 50 per cent of the stone below the water table."
Both of the above applications are set too be discussed at Somerset County Council (SCC) meeting on Thursday (June 24) at 10am.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here