Objectors have spoken out against plans to continue to use a north-east quarry amid concerns about its impact nearby roads.
Neil Murray Housebuilders Ltd wants use of the site at the Westside of Forglen, Hillhead of Mountblairy, to the east of Aberchirder.
The applicants believe a total of 2,000 tonnes can be extracted over the next five years on top of the 1,500 which had been extracted by January this year.
But council planners have recommended the application – which will go before the Banff and Buchan area committee tomorrow – for refusal.
A report to councillors suggests the plans would have a “negative impact” on the local roads and that the developer has not provided any “mitigation” to address these concerns.
And the application has also been met with numerous objections from residents of the local area.
In his response, Turriff resident Craig Tetlow said: “I live in the property adjacent to the road which accesses the named planning application and have a number of concerns regarding the suitability of the surrounding roads.
“The roads are very narrow and not suitable for the type and size of vehicles used.”
He added: “My concern is that is planning is granted there will be an increase in these vehicles visiting the site as I have no faith that the applicant will adhere to the declared intentions of annual limitations and truck
movements.”
And fellow objector Bruce Mitchell expressed concern for wildlife in the area.
He said in his submission: “I would like to think the safety of children is taken into account when such decisions are made.
“I also have concerns about the impact the excavation has had on the wildlife and their habitats in the surrounding area.”
Last night Jim Bayne, secretary of Alvah and Forglen Community Council claimed “safety” was being traded off, and pointed to the holiday camp at nearby Silverstripe, near Forglen – recently approved despite concerns about road safety and lack of roads infrastructure.
He said: “I am appalled at the cavalier approach some councillors have recently demonstrated in their attitude to road safety.
“It is reprehensible that they seek to trade off community safety against some nebulous material gain for individuals.”
