WYRE Forest MP Mark Garnier has slammed "insane" plans to build a quarry ahead of a second public inquiry next week.

Mr Garnier has said that the proposal for the sand and gravel quarry at Lea Castle Farm, between Cookley and Wolverley, "threatens local health and safety," with five schools nearby and family homes.

The Stop Lea Castle Farm Quarry action group was set up to oppose the plans, with campaigners raising concerns over the destruction of the “beautiful unspoilt countryside,” noise pollution, and widespread exposure to harmful mineral dust.

The plan was previously rejected by Worcestershire County Council, but applicants NRS Aggregates appealed against the decision. 

The first public inquiry was held last year where a decision was made by an inspector to throw out the quarry proposal.

But this was quashed by the High Court following a judicial review. The court has ordered that the appeal be "re-determined".

NRS Aggregates says materials from the quarry will supply much-needed aggregates to maintain local roads and build new housing.

Mr Garnier will speak against the plans at the public inquiry, which is set to be held at Stourport Manor Hotel from 10am on November 5, to November 15.

Mr Garnier said: "This is an insane place to put a quarry".

"This whole area is surrounded by family homes and communities that do not want this quarry.

"It doesn't make any sense, the community are outraged by it.

"On the 5th of November there is a second planning inquiry going on.

"I will be speaking at that planning inquiry making the case that this is a terrible, terrible idea.

"Nobody wants it apart from the land owners, it's not fair on the community.

"It'll be disruptive to people's lives and it's bad for the health of our children at schools nearby".