A COMPANY is working on a planning application for a 90-hectare quarry to the east of Hexham’s Egger factory, on land owned by Allendale Estates.

The proposals, from Thompsons of Prudhoe, could create around 10 onsite jobs and a further 20 indirectly, with the site to be worked for the next 25 years.

Thompsons say the quarry is necessary to meet a need for sand and gravel in the county.

At Sandhoe Parish Council meeting on Thursday, councillors and residents were given a presentation by Katie Wood of R & K Wood Planning, and Thompsons development manager Ryan Molloy.

Katie said: “A sand and gravel site is different to a hard stone quarry.

“The first metre and a half of top soil comes off and then the minerals are taken out with a single excavator.

“Essentially what you’re doing is creating a lake behind you, which will be used for conservation.”

However, local residents and councillors took issue with the impact the proposed quarry would have on both views and the environment.

Concerns were raised about the fact that the site would lead to 50 lorries a day using the Beaufront road, as well as potential flooding impact on Corbridge.

Resident Prof. Harry Bradbury urged the company not to apply for planning permission. “I’m telling you no. It’s not going to happen, I will violently object to this. You’re showing me the detail and I’m telling you it’s wrong,” he said.

“Thompsons are a good company, but I’m sorry you’ve got this wrong. Please don’t do this.”

Speaking after the meeting, parish council chairman Coun. Mark Baxter said: “This is the most controversial thing to hit Hexham in years. It will affect most residents in the Tyne valley in some way.

“The view from Anick is the best view in Northumberland, and this will ruin it.”

Mr Molloy added that all comments would be taken on board and said that experts would be employed to make sure the site was safe.