Plans for a stone cutting shed at Branshaw Quarry on the western edge of Keighley will be debated by councillors next week The proposals are to be considered by members of Bradford Council’s regulatory and appeals committee.

Council officers have recommended the plans for the site at Holme House Lane be approved. However, the application has met with opposition from local residents.

Along with opposition from Keighley Town Council, the objections cite fears about industrial-type noise, increased numbers of heavy goods vehicles and harmful effects on wildlife.

But the applicant, Ashlar Stone Products, argues that a recent noise assessment has shown that the proposed operation will not increase existing background levels.

The company also points out that the shed will be situated in the bottom of the quarry, so would not be visible from the surrounding area.

The council planning officers’ own written report on the plans notes: “To ensure that any potential for disturbance is minimised, the environmental health officer has recommended a raft of stringent conditions.

“These limit hours of operation, require the cutting shed to be orientated to face away from the nearest noise-sensitive premises, and require the shed to be insulated with absorbent material to combat reverberation sound from saws.”

The meeting takes place on April 24.