Environment Minister Mark H Durkan today announced planning approval for a 23.8hectare extension to Demesne Quarry, Glenarm.

This development, led by OMYA UK Ltd, is for a sideways extension of Demesne Quarry southwards into Tully Field. It will also restore Parishagh Quarry for agricultural uses to the original ground level. The Demesne Quarry will be restored in part to original ground level.

This is an Article 31 planning application meaning that it is of such significance that the final decision rests with the Minister.

Mr Durkan said: "This approval will bring an economic boost for both Northern Ireland and Glenarm, securing jobs existing in the area for 25 years.

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"The Ulster White Limestone extracted at this site is very limited in Northern Ireland. The current reserves the company has have almost been exhausted. This extension means that this important resource can continue to supply the Irish markets north and south, with a range of white limestone aggregates, sands and fillers.

"Whilst the development during extraction will be obvious from some parts of the Glenarm River valley, I believe that the restoration proposals for Parishagh Quarry and part of Demesne Quarry outweigh this. These will result in long term benefits that will visually improve the landscape through the re-establishment of the former landform, land cover and landscape character within these areas.

"In making my decision I also took into consideration that the Tully Field area of the quarry site will remain a prominent feature on the slopes, particularly from elevated view points. On balance though I am confident the long-term biodiversity benefits that the restoration proposals will bring will more than compensate for this."

(CD)