CONCERNS have been raised over controversial plans for a quarry at a former airfield.

A consultation has been launched by CEMEX UK Operations Ltd on plans for the extraction of sand and gravel at the former Hamble Airfield.

This comes after the area was included in the county council’s plans for sand and gravel extraction in 2013 and could see 1.7 million tonnes extracted over a period of 6 – 7 years.

Now a virtual public exhibition has been produced and is allowing residents and stakeholders to comment on it until November 25.

But local leaders have voiced their concerns that the plans will cause more traffic in an “already congested” area.

A spokesperson for CEMEX stated that under national planning policy, the County Council is under “an obligation to maintain an adequate and steady supply of sand and gravel”.

These are then used in the construction industry and are said to be ‘essential’ for the delivery of homes, roads, and schools.

But Eastleigh MP, Paul Holmes said he is “completely opposed” to the plan, adding that it represents a “poorly thought out proposal”.

“The traffic, the safety issues and the proximity to local schools are all strong reasons why it shouldn’t go ahead. This is before we consider the environmental damage and the loss of green space.”

Eastleigh Borough Council leader, Keith House, also told the Echo that the authority has opposed plans for 15 years.

He added: “The idea of an extra heavy lorry every three minutes with gravel is madness on one of Hampshire’s busiest and most congested roads. I hope it will be possible to defeat this crazy plan.”

But the spokesperson for CEMEX continued: “CEMEX are aware of issues with congestion on Hamble Lane, and are willing to engage extensively with the County Council and other stakeholders on mitigation measures, and to contribute as necessary to highway improvements.

“CEMEX is also proposing a restoration scheme that will return the site to open space and its original ground level, introduce new native planting, and enhance biodiversity.

“There will be a large gain to biodiversity compared to the current site, and extensive surveys have been carried out as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment to ensure there are no significant effects to the environment.

“Alongside job creation and economic opportunities for local people, our plans feature a new area of public open space, and footpath enhancements to benefit the community.

The consultation on the plans can be found at hambleairfield.consultationonline.co.uk.