Pentney could be “decimated” by plans to dig a huge gravel quarry in the village, say local people.The site has been put forward for inclusion in a Norfolk County Council consultation document indentifying suitable locations for minerals and waste developments.

Pentney could be “decimated” by plans to dig a huge gravel quarry in the village, say local people.

The site has been put forward for inclusion in a Norfolk County Council consultation document indentifying suitable locations for minerals and waste developments.

But villagers fear it would swallow up a number of private houses, several archaeological sites, a green burial site, and cause “untold damage” to grade-I listed church.

A website www.SavePentney.co.uk has been set up and a meeting is being held on Saturdayfrom 1-4pm in the village hall to discuss the plans.

Sam Knox, of the Save Pentney campaign, said: “To say the locals are outraged by this is an understatement in the extreme. The entire village is at risk from this. The quarry isn't in a remote part of the parish. The map accompanying the proposal shows the quarry site extending right into the heart of the village. This will destroy peoples lives and literally rip the heart and soul out of a beautiful village.”

The consultation on the 104 proposed quarries and 64 landfill sites has been extended until April 25 to give protesters more time to have their say.

A council spokesman said: “It's important for people to bear in mind no decisions have been taken. The sites included have been put forward by landowners and mineral and waste operators. Any of the sites chosen after consultation will still have to apply for planning permission and undergo detailed examination.”

*Website: www.norfolk.gov.uk/nmwdf.