RESIDENTS from Venn Ottery have launched a campaign against plans to re-open a quarry.
Aggregate Industries wants to begin extracting sand and gravel from its site on Venn Ottery Hill in the new year.
Concerned nearby householders say it will have a “devastating impact” on wildlife, the landscape, natural environment and their lives.
They fear excavations will have an “appalling effect” on an area used by people around the region for walking, cycling and horse riding.
Aggregate Industries said the work would last four years and the area would be reinstated as a 40-acre heathland site of “great value” to nature conservation.
The quarry, last used in the 1970s, is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Resident Claire Stein said: “This is one of the most scenically beautiful and wildlife rich areas of East Devon.”
John Penny, estates manager for Aggregate Industries, said the firm appreciated the short-term impact.
“We’ll be putting back a lot more than we’re taking away,” he added.
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