Cheshire East has given the go-ahead for Sibelco UK to extend the silica sand extraction at a local quarry.

The council's strategic planning board was unanimous in granting permission to extend the extraction limit at Bent Farm Quarry, Wallhill Lane, Brownlow near Sandbach.

Planning officer Emma Williams told Wednesday's meeting at Macclesfield Town Hall: "The proposal is to vary planning conditions on the current mineral consent and to allow a time extension for extraction to take place until 2025 with restoration by 2026.

"It also proposes an increase to the permitted depth of extraction by a further two metres and a marginal increase to the extraction limits on the south-eastern boundary."

David Walton, representing the applicant, said this vitally important industrial sand has been extracted from Bent Farm Quarry for over 30 years.

"Bent Farm Quarry provides a range of employment opportunities directly employing 55 staff, with further indirect employment through contract work in haulage, maintenance and service industries," said Mr Walton.

"The application before you seeks a minor extension in time to extract the important mineral reserves and ensure continuity of supply of industrial mineral."

The committee was told the application would not mean an increase in the number of HGV journeys to and from the site.

Cllr Patrick Redstone (Odd Rode, Con) said: "This is a long established quarry. We haven't received many complaints about movements along this road recently.

"I do agree that this does create sustained employment and I don't have any objection to the amendment."