NEWTON Abbot MP Martin Wrigley says he has ‘listened closely’ to Kingsteignton residents campaigning against plans they claim will obliterate a vital local wildlife haven.

Objectors from Save Our Trees appealed to the MP to step in over controversial plans by clay firm Sibelco to expand its quarrying activities.

It is preparing a scheme for the Zitherixon quarry – also known as Rackerhayes – on the outskirts of the town, and intends to submit a planning application later this year.

Campaigners told Mr Wrigley in an open letter that local residents face 50 years of harmful silica dust, noise and lorry traffic beside homes and schools.

They also point out that cutting down trees takes away natural flood barriers and that the planned development conflicts with local planning policies.

In response, Mr Wrigley said it was clear how deeply the residents cared about the environment and social impact this proposal could have.

He said: ‘I’ve heard concerns about the potential effects on the natural landscape particularly the loss of trees, risk of flooding, threats to wildlife and the broader impact in biodiversity and conservation.

‘I also understand the serious worries around noise, vibration, dust and disruption that could affect nearby homes, schools and daily life.’

He has also met with members of Save Our Trees campaign and Newton Abbot Rugby Club which would both be affected along with the wider community.

He assured residents he would ‘continue to work to ensure all local concerns are heard and fully considered’.

He added: ‘Any permissions given must be based on a clear and robust plan around how Sibelco intends to achieve the legally required 110 per cent biodiversity net gain and how they will manage potential flood risks and how wildlife will be preserved with trees removed.

'As things stand, Sibelco holds the mineral rights, a range of planning permissions along with a scoping opinion granted in 2023 for the Zitherixon expansion.

‘They will need to go back to Devon County Council to seek more permissions for the site which will need to detail the environmental impact of the works and their proposals to deal with it.

‘They will be required to provide a full environmental impact of the works and their proposals to deal with it and to provide a full environmental statement.

'It is vital this is fully scrutinised to ensure they do the least harm possible while delivering on all environmental and community commitments.’

He explained parliamentary protocols prevent MPs from intervening directly in local planning decisions.

But he said he will explore any opportunity to raise concerns in Parliament where appropriate.

He added: ‘I encourage all residents to continue making your voices heard particularly to your county councillors who have key roles to play in representing your views.

‘My commitment is to stand with our community and help secure the best possible outcome for Kingsteignton, one that respects both the needs of residents and the environment we value.’