AMBITIOUS plans to transform a quarry into an outdoor activity centre and camp site have won the overwhelming support of town councillors, despite concerns from neighbours.
Emma King and Jonathan Ely last night presented proposals for the 170-acre Huntley Wood quarry site, near Cheadle, to councillors and residents, who were told it could accommodate a maximum of 900 people.
The couple bought the site after it was put on the market for �500,000 when controversial landfill plans put forward as part of a proposed golf course development were thrown out.
They hope their leisure development will prove popular with historical re-enactment groups and lovers of the great outdoors.
Residents, who attended last night's Cheadle Town Council meeting, expressed fears over noise and called for a night time curfew on activities.
Huntley resident Ray Hutchins, who is a former county councillor, said: "My basic worry is about the level of noise. It has got to be kept to a reasonable level.
"We would like to have peace in the evenings. All the outdoor activities should close at 8pm, so we can put our babies to sleep.
"We were originally promised this place would be returned to a nature and a picnic area for the people of Cheadle.
"We have councillors saying this is the best thing for Huntley Wood, but they do not live on the boundary."
Former Staffordshire Moorlands District Council leader Ron Locker added: "It is going to be something very special for our area. I think it will be an asset, providing the fears of residents are allayed.
"The people running it want to be good neighbours.
"It is very difficult in these times to encourage people to invest in our area and we should welcome them with open arms."
The couple, who have moved to Huntley from the Isle of Man, have set up their own company, Argoncroft Ltd.
A final decision on the plans is expected at next month's meeting of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council's planning committee.
If the go-ahead is given work could start later this year. The development will include log cabins, four toilet blocks and ancillary accommodation.
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