Proposals to create a new one million cubic metre size quarry north of Ipswich has nearly received more than 190 objections from those living in nearby areas to the site.

Witnesham Parish Council planning committee held a special meeting on Monday at the village Baptist church to discuss the plans to build the quarry in Westerfield, around three miles away.

The proposed one million cubic metre size quarry has proven unpopular with Westerfield residents who have labelled it "insane" and "awful" over estimated HGV moments, possible pollution and road concerns.

In a letter to Swiland and Witnesham Grouped Parish Council, the developers of the project, TRU7 Group, has offered to hold an exhibition with villagers to showcase the proposals and receive feedback in November.


The meeting place on Monday eveningThe meeting place on Monday evening (Image: Google)

The proposed quarry would be used for the extraction of sand and gravel.

The total time period sought for all activities including restoration is 16 years and see an estimated 126 daily HGV movements if approved.

A week ago, the number of objections that had been lodged was 65 and has sharply risen to more than 190.

The proposed site would in Westerfield, north of IpswichThe proposed site would in Westerfield, north of Ipswich (Image: Google Maps) Witnesham residents added their concerns at the meeting, saying they fear an increase in traffic, noise and air pollution, road safety, key underground infrastructure pipes as well as environmental damage. 

Michael Reynolds, who lives in Witnesham, attended Monday's meeting.

The 79-year-old retired civil servant said: "A good number of people there regard the proposal so grotesque it can't be true.

"People were standing up and saying things like 'This is so ludicrous I can't believe we are debating it' and 'I can't believe we are considering an industrial application of this nature and size coming out to a B road.'"

The existing entrance to the siteThe existing entrance to the site (Image: Google Maps)

The deadline for comments to the application, in objection or support ends today (September 26), but Mr Reynolds says there may be more time needed. 

The resident said: "The more the proposal is aired and the more time the wider community has to say what it thinks the better.

"Frankly I would welcome if application was withdrawn and would go away but I know it doesn't work like that."

Tru7 Group were approached for comment.