Concern new quarry site would 'swallow countryside'

Concerns have been raised a 275-acre quarry extension would swallow part of the Leicestershire countryside.

Tarmac Trading has applied for planning permission to excavate sand and gravel on land south of the A4304, near Misterton, to replace Shawell Quarry, which has been operating for 50 years and has reserves which are said to be "nearing exhaustion".

But councillors fear the new quarry site would effectively join Lutterworth, Misterton and Walcote together.

They have also raised concerns about noise, traffic and dust as part of the consultation on the plan, which will be decided by Leicestershire County Council.

Tarmac has said the new site would operate for 67 hours a week.

But Misterton with Walcote Parish Council has said in its response to the consultation it would "swallow the existing open countryside" between Lutterworth, Misterton and Walcote, and would "in effect join the settlements together".

It added: "The applicant assures residents that the quarry will 'only' operate for 67 hours each week. For about half a year, that will be all daylight hours during weekdays.

"During this time, noise and dust will be generated. In addition, extra time will be needed to clean down equipment once work is finished, extending the hours of noise pollution".

Lutterworth Town Council has also raised fears about traffic, safety and the impact on quality of life from the proposal, as it "would result in a significant increase in the number of vehicles traveling to and from the site".

Around 400,000 tonnes of sand and gravel are expected to be extracted each year and a processing plant would also be created on the site.

Leicestershire County Council has not yet set a decision date for the application but Tarmac advised the Local Democracy Reporting Service the determination date has been extended to 31 August.

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