Ennstone Breedon had faced widespread opposition from local residents, who claimed toxic chemicals could seep through the ground.

The company wanted to fill the land with commercial and industrial waste, such as tyres and plastic.

It has shelved those plans but says it now wants to extend the quarry instead.

The devil is in the details. We would like to see exactly what is planned Resident Stephen Spears

A planning application was submitted to Leicestershire County Council to extend the range of materials at the Breedon Quarry back in February 2000.

Since then, residents living near the limestone quarry have been fighting the proposals.

They had claimed toxic chemicals could pose a health risk to those living around site on Breedon on the Hill.

The company is now withdrawing the proposals but instead wants to build an extension to the quarry's eastern side.

Road threatened

Ruth Roll from Ennstone Breedon said: "It was an either/or situation. We considered the waste option but have decided to continue utilising its mineral resources instead.

"It's important to remember the quarry has been there for 100 years and has played an important in the village both for employment and building materials."

Resident Stephen Spears said: "The devil is in the details. We would like to see exactly what is planned.

"For instance, eastward expansion could threaten the road to Derby which would be very inconvenient."