Anger and worry over proposals for a large-scale quarrying operation brought more than 100 people out.

People crowded into Plumbland Village Hall to express concern about plans by Thomas Armstrong (Aggragate) Ltd, to work the High Close Quarry on High Close Farm.

The company has held the rights to quarry limestone from the site since the 1950s.

In its application to Cumbria County Council, its agent said the company has spent a lot of time and money to ensure that the new quarrying operation would be in lines with the regulations that have been introduced since the 1950s.

Plumbland Parish Council chairman John Spiers-Dawson said the council formed a working party two years ago after Thomas Armstrong’s applied for scoping permission.

“We raised concerns then and we retain them today. We had 102 people here which is more than half our population and there were numerous apologies from people unable to attend. That shows the strength of feeling.”

Jo Spiers, from the Muslins, said it is urgent now for people to object before the deadline of October 14.

Mr Spiers-Dawson suggested individual letters would be the best approach.

He added that the parish council was contacting neighbouring parishes, including Aspatria, to warn them of the proposal and the effects it could have on traffic through their towns and villages.

However, Mrs Spiers said if there were not enough people writing she proposed to copy standard letters and get people to sign.

“I am thinking we could have different approaches from different areas. Some parts of the parish would have 50 or 60 vehicles coming down small, twisting roads right on their doorstep. In another area the quarrying is right near the school. Then there is the waterway to contend with.

“Part of the application will look at the impact on the local environment. I am confident we can prove that will be negative.

“This is an area where we hear birdsong, leaves rustling and the occasional tractor. Quarrying would destroy that for us.”