An application for new night-time working at Bank Top stone quarry, in Wilsden, has been approved.

M and M Yorkshire Stone Products had asked for permission to cut sandstone and use a forklift truck every weekday from 6pm to 10pm, which they argued would increase efficiency and give workers another shift.

The firm added that there was no plan to increase any heavy traffic to or from the site during those evenings.

Council officers recommended the plans should be approved, concluding that there would be economic benefit, and that the impact of stone sawing, with the shed doors closed, would not lead to “significant disturbance” to local residents.

Wilsden Parish Council had opposed the scheme, voicing fears over the potential for increased noise pollution from the site’s two stone saws housed in sheds.

However, members of the regulatory and appeals committee voted to accept the application.