RESIDENTS’ groups have praised a council’s decision to reject a planning application for a controversial quarry.

North Yorkshire County Council’s planning committee unanimously agreed to throw out the application for a mineral extraction site and tourism development at Middleton Lodge, between Barton and Middleton Tyas, North Yorkshire.

Developer Sherburn Stone Company wanted to open up a new quarry and built a conveyor belt to connect it with neighbouring Barton Quarry.

The Barton and Middleton Tyas residents’ associations both argued that there was no need for another quarry.

County council planning officers agreed and had recommended members refuse the application, which included plans to enhance existing park land and create a restaurant and function rooms.

Members unanimously agreed to refuse the application at a meeting in County Hall, Northallerton, yesterday.

Frank Jones, chairman of the Middleton Tyas group, said: "It was the right decision for both villages, Barton and Middleton Tyas.

"We are very pleased that the members agreed with the officers’ recommendation.

"There was no need for another quarry, there is an adequate supply of limestone in the area."