West Berkshire Council is considering an application to convert the former Frilsham Lime Quarry into housing

The Frilsham Land Company Ltd has applied to demolish dilapidated stuctures at the former Frilsham Lime Quarry and to build two new five-bed houses of “exceptional quality and design”.

But the application has received mixed responses.

Some residents fear for the impact the conversion will have on the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Other local residents, including Mr Drake, welcomed the “logical use of this now surplus and wasted piece of land”.

The site, in Brock Lane, has been utilised as a builder’s yard since closing, but has fallen into a state of neglect.

A main environmental health concern raised regarding the proposal is PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and lead contamination present in some areas of the proposed site.

A remediation scheme and validation plan have been approved to deal with any contamination and to ensure any further unexpected contamination is remediated if encountered during development.

While it voiced no objections, Frilsham Parish Council pointed out how local traffic is not currently accustomed to vechicles accessing the concealed entrance, and suggested a sign warning motorists should be put up if the application is approved.

West Berkshire Council is currently considering the proposal and will announce its decision soon.