The firm behind plans to expand a quarry near Blairgowrie says it will launch an appeal after the proposals were turned down.
A Perth and Kinross Council committee was unanimous in its opposition to the plans for Marlee Quarry, to the south-west of the town.
Members met on Wednesday to discuss the proposals from Laird Aggregates Ltd.
The company wants to start work in three fields neighbouring its existing site – saying the expansion is “integral” to its business plan as current reserves will run out within two years.
Planning officials recommended that the application be approved.
But after more than 100 objections were lodged, with concerns including noise, environmental impact and the loss of agricultural land, the proposals were turned down.
Local councillor Tom McEwan described the plans as “undesirable”, adding: “They will create a significant visual change to the area.
“You can’t build an extension to your house across the road.”
Concerns over impact of quarry on residents
Other concerns included the impact of dust from the quarry, the proximity to nearby houses and safety on the B947 – which runs between the existing and proposed quarry sites.
The committee also pointed to the fact that Laird had only held one consultation over its proposals – though the firm said a second was not needed.
Campaigner Tim Baynes, speaking on behalf of residents who are opposed to the quarry expansion, told The Courier he was “absolutely delighted” with the decision.
He said: “It’s been a sword hanging over us the last 18 months and we’re so pleased that the council has given it really careful consideration, and looked at it in detail.
“I was concerned going into the meeting given the huge resources that the applicant has at its disposal, and that all the professional and technical reports and things would overwhelm it.
“I’m very glad the council has looked at the human aspect of it, as well as the numbers of tonnes of sand and gravel, and decided that was more important.
“It isn’t just the narrow interest of us residents, it is a big thing for Blairgowrie.
“Blairgowrie’s future is seen as a tourist town and what you don’t want in a tourist town is a big quarry opening up on the edge of town.
“We are cautious that Laird has put a lot of investment in here and may appeal it, and would be disappointed if that happens.”
Decision ‘based on unfounded claims’ – Laird
Laird has confirmed to The Courier it will appeal the decision to the Scottish Government.
In a statement, director Jamie Laird added: “We are very disappointed with the committee’s decision to refuse the planning application.
“It appears that the committee has chosen to base the decision on the unfounded assertions of local residents as opposed to the consideration of the detailed specialist reports submitted in support of the application.
The proposal was in compliance with the local development plan
Jamie Laird
“These reports having been subject to confirmation by statutory consultees, who are independent experts, and who have accepted that the proposed extension could be undertaken without any significant environmental or amenity impacts.
“The committee decision was contrary to the report of handling, by the head of planning and development, which confirmed that the proposal was in compliance with the local development plan and gave a strong recommendation for approval.”
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