A QUARRY company is trying to overturn a council's refusal to allow it to extend its workings.

Durham County Council has twice rejected planning applications by the Sherburn Sand Company to work an extension to the Crime Rigg Quarry near Shadforth.

The extension, covering half a hectare, would yield about 500,000 tonnes of limestone and sand.

The scheme would involve diverting a bridleway and farm access and creating a new access to the quarry with a tunnel under the nearby B1283.

The council refused permission for both the original application and a revised version, saying the scheme breached policies in its Minerals Local Plan and was contrary to its strategy for the area's magnesian limestone escarpment.

The council also concluded that future need for sand and gravel was already catered for by other identified sites.

It said that the bridleway diversion would be less convenient and have less amenity value because the current route features a historic hedgerow of botanic interest.

Yesterday, a public inquiry began into the firm's appeal against the decision and a proposed order to divert the bridleway.

Neil Robson, solicitor for the firm, told the hearing that evidence would be produced to show that the scheme was in tune with mineral planning policies. He also said that public safety and the operational safety of the quarry were material considerations in the plan.

He said the inquiry would hear that there was no public opposition, that there was a need for sand from the extension area and that the area's reserves would be sterilised if the council's decision was not overturned.

"There are significant material considerations in favour of the proposed extension."

Council solicitor Anthony Ewin said the firm's proposals were "completely contrary'' to the council's policies and that other sites in the county could satisfy the need for sand and gravel.

The hearing, chaired by an independent inspector, is expected to last at least until Thursday and may be concluded next week.

The decision on whether to uphold the appeal and the bridleway diversion order will be made by the Government at a later date.