THE decision to block contentious quarrying plans on parts of the historic Gillies Hill has been hailed by campaigners in Cambusbarron.

A proposal had been submitted by Paterson's Quarries to re-establish operations on the site, well known for its role in the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

The company had planning permission valid until 2042, but was seeking to include an area outside existing workings.

Their plans, however, attracted widespread opposition with community councils in the surrounding lodging objections.

Stirling Council delayed a decision on the application, with the Scottish Government reporter later called in to settle the matter.

Richard Dent held a two-day inquiry and later ruled the proposal's adverse affect would have outweighed any economic benefits.

He then refused the application, prompting celebration among the community groups who had fought the application from the beginning.

Save Gillies Hill group secretary Marion MacAllister said: "Gillies Hill is important not only for historic and recreational reasons but also for the fact that this land is important to the people of Stirling and beyond.

"It is loved for the quiet, the green, the peace, the age of the woods, for the fact that it is so close and that families have walked there for generations."

After the announcement was made, Councillor Danny Gibson, the council's environment convenor, said: "The decision of the reporter is final and all relevant parties have been notified. I'm sure this decision will be warmly welcomed by the Cambusbarron community."

Stirling SNP politicians also hailed the decision, with Steven Paterson MP adding: “Gillies Hill is a site of outstanding natural beauty as well as historical significance. Its legendary role in the Battle of Bannockburn continues to inspire generations of locals and visitors - and the diversity of wildlife that it is home to makes it all the more important that it is protected.

“Cambusbarron Community Council, along with many others involved, made a compelling case to reject this attempt to re-open quarrying activity on Gillies Hill. I hope that Stirling Council will now move to ensure that this site is properly protected so that never again will it be met by the threat of further quarrying activity.”

Bruce Crawford MSP said: “I am delighted by this outcome which is a huge credit to the local community council and campaign group who campaigned hard for years to protect this unique local asset.

“I hope that the quarrying company involved in the planning application recognise that this is the end of the road and that no such activity will take place in or around Gillies Hill.”

Councillor Scott Farmer added: “This is the right decision from the Scottish Government Reporter and I know that the whole community will be relieved that this process is now over.

“This is a real win for the local community and I am grateful to the campaigners for their passionate approach to tackling this matter.”