A leafleting campaign was followed by a public meeting and the formation of an action committee last week.

Glenarm Village Association, meanwhile, has issued a statement regretting “a conflict of interest” with Omya. It fears the open cast quarry “could have a catastrophic effect on the development of the village, on the growth of tourism in the area and on related leisure and tourism jobs.”

Glenarm GP Dr Benny Glover has questioned the contribution of the quarry operation to the Glenarm economy when weighed against environmental impact, while east Antrim MP Sammy Wilson is firmly of the belief that the Omya proposals measure up on both scores.

Omya said this week that the issues raised have been addressed in the environmental impact statement submitted with the planning application in 2005.

“Prior to that submission extensive consultation took place with the local community,” the firm said.

Reporting on Pages 18 & 19