HUNDREDS of residents have voiced their concerns over a new quarry and transport site in Ardleigh.

The proposed sand and gravel pit would cover 250 acres of agricultural land – the equivalent of about 150 football pitches.

Seven million tonnes of material would be extracted and taken to the transport site on conveyor belts.

The transport site would process up to 500,000 tonnes of material a year, including material coming by road from other quarries.

Tim Barrott, chairman of Ardleigh Parish Council, said: “An exhibition was organised by Essex County Council so concerned people can understand what these proposals will mean for the village.

“Ardleigh is a small, rural parish and these plans would have a huge impact.”

The proposal is part of Essex County Council’s attempts to provide 40million tonnes of aggregates by 2028 to build new homes and businesses.

Due to the mineral deposits in Essex, the vast majority would have to come from the north of the county.

Dozens of sites have been proposed, but residents in Ardleigh argue they are already providing their fair share.

Mr Barrott said: “We have been very encouraged by the numbers of people who were in attendance, and not just from Ardleigh.

“There were visitors from Little and Great Bromley and further afield, which shows how widespread concern is.”

The village has already seen developments at Wick Farm and Slough Lane in recent years.

There will be a public meeting at Ardleigh Village Hall on October 7, at 7.30pm, to give residents the chance to quiz the developer and representatives from County Hall.