A packed meeting at Shackleford village hall was called by the Parish Council to hear about the County Council’s plans for mineral extraction at Eashing Farm.

Speaking after the meeting, Anne said:

“Local residents are extremely angry about this. The plan will not be finalised until late 2008 which, ultimately, blights their homes until then. We all have questions about how long extraction will go on for and how deep they will dig. We all have fears about what will be put in the hole at the end. On top of that, the area is near to a site of special scientific interest and we must know more about the effects there may be on water courses and the ecology.

I am disappointed by the County Council’s consultation. Not only were residents not informed but the first question is very loaded. However, I would urge all residents to respond. It is critical that each and every member of all homes writes and makes sure the County Council knows their view.”