THE refusal to approve a gravel quarry in the Ochil Hills has been welcomed by Clackmannanshire Council.

Aggregates firm Cemex UK lodged an application to extend its license at Glendevon Quarry until 2035.

However, the proposal was shelved by planning officials at Perth and Kinross Council’s development management committee last month.

Clackmannanshire Council initially objected to the plan, raising concerns about the increased HGV traffic on the A823 road, and of the potential impact on tourism in a popular walking area.

The plan had also drawn opposition from a number of community councils along with 108 letters of objection from locals.

Councillor Donald Balsillie, convener of the enterprise and environment committee, praised the representatives at Perth and Kinross for taking their submission into account.

He said: “The majority of local people were against the quarry at Glenquey, with real concerns over the potential impact, both on the environment and on road safety, which is why the council raised concerns about the application.

“I am glad that the application has been refused and am sure that this council’s submissions were helpful contributions.” The news of the quarry’s veto was greeted by community groups as a victory for common sense.

Malcolm Best, convenor of Stop the Quarry: Save Glenquey, said: “There was a very real fear that this extension would have been granted and the quarry could have been allowed to go ahead.

“But those on the Perth and Kinross planning committee held a very healthy debate and listened to all the concerns we and other groups put forward.

“Hoepfully, Cemex will now appreciate the alternatives which exist for the future of the site and enhance their green credentials.

“We would like to see a nature reserve established here to attract even more people to the area to enjoy it.” Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, added: “It was clear from the outset that the vast majority of local people were against the quarry at Glenquey with real concerns over the potential environmental impact and road safety concerns.

“I congratulate the local community councils for the hard work they have put in to represent the concerns of their local communities.”