THE life of a North Yorkshire limestone quarry will be extended by six years if plans for a larger extraction area are approved.
The existing reserves of Forcett quarry in East Layton, near Richmond, are expected to be exhausted within three years and Hanson Quarry Products is applying to the county council for permission to extend the site by 6.2 hectares.
Next week, the planning committee will be told that tests have proved that the area, east of the present workings, contains 1.5 million tonnes of high-quality limestone and that the extension will ensure continuity of supply to industry and safeguard jobs.
The company has offered to set up a liaison group to work with the local community to address any problems that may arise from the extension.
One objection has been received from a nearby resident, but planning officers are recommending approval, with conditions.
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