OPPOSITION is growing against a proposal to reopen the dormant Crossthwaite quarry at Middleton in Teesdale.

On Wednesday night, 49 members of the public attended a meeting of Middleton Parish Council to discuss the implications of its reopening.

Strathmore Estate has applied to Durham County Council to reopen the site for blasting and processing of up to 100,000 tonnes of whinstone a year. This could result in up to 20 lorry loads a day leaving the site.

Members considered a letter drawn up by chairman Diana Mahood and Coun Madeleine Sutcliffe, raising the council's concerns, as consultees, about the impact on residents, wildlife and the landscape if the proposal went ahead.

Coun Mahood said: "I felt the meeting was very successful and I was pleased with the turnout of people.

"There were representatives of Holwick and Mickleton parish councils also in attendance.

"Members were happy with the contents of the letter and it has been sent to Durham County Council. We feel we have covered every aspect that we can."

However, some residents felt that job creation as a result of reopening would be a good thing and the letter also asked for clarification on the likelihood of work.

A group of residents also announced a campaign, Middleton Against Reopening Crossthwaite, and launched a web site, www.crossthwaite.info.

Mickleton Parish Council is also arranging a meeting in August.

Planning permission has been granted until 2042 but an environmental impact assessment is required before reopening can take place because the quarry is within an area of outstanding natural beauty, and encircled by a site of special scientific interest.

Strathmore Estate said it aimed to ensure the protection of the environment and the amenity of residents when drawing up its proposal.