Plans by Carew Quarry to extend its business into the production of concrete blocks were given the thumbs up by National Park planners this week.
The Park's development control committee approved an application by Thomas Scourfield and Sons to vary conditions of their 1997 operating permission which would now allow them to import cement and pumice for the manufacture of concrete blocks.
Mrs. Carol Willaims, the Park's minerals officer, told Wednesday's meeting that there were a number of objections locally to the application, notably from Carew Community Council.
Much of the objection to the proposal was on traffic grounds, Mrs. Williams pointed out.
However, she added that the County Highways department had noted that there was no restriction on the output of stone aggregate from the site.
"This is an historical quarry, and while the access is an aknowledged problem, there is no restriction on the tonnage from the quarry," she explained.
"County Highways recognise there are difficulties with the approach road and are investigating means of slowing down traffic on the public highway
"It is not envisaged that the traffic will significantly increase from what has been usual in recent years, although the character of some of the vehicles would alter as a result."
Mrs. Williams added that existing conditions regarding noise and dust would also be sufficient to cover any new operation at the site.
"Against the background of advice given, I don't think we can do anything but grant approval," commented committee member, Mr. Richard Howells.
The committee also approved the erection of a concrete batching plant at the quarry.