Quarrying on this scale can generate airborne silica dust and other microscopic particulate which can travel some distance. The fact that this is a coastal quarry means that fine dust will certainly be carried downwind 2km, the primary school is less than 1km away. Although gabbro is not generally characterised by high content of crystalline silica, in even very small amounts this can cause long term health hazards which include Fine dust of any nature can create for people who have Because the small particles never leave the lungs, the sharp edges can continue to cause irritation and inflammation for many years to come.

Children, the elderly, and people who already have health problems are more affected by exposure to fine dust, but anyone can be made ill by breathing this air pollutant.

Since Dean Quarry was last operational there has been much research done regarding the health issues around the PM2.5 (fraction of total). These are particulates of 2.5 micrometres, or less, in diameter and are invisible to the eye. Black carbon can also be a major component of PM2.5 (fraction of suspended dust from industrial operations) and this is found in the emissions from diesel vehicles, especially HGVs and also quarry haul trucks and loaders. The World Health Organisation believes this to be a ‘major cancer risk and as deadly as asbestos and mustard gas’ which, in this day and age, make it highly inappropriate to have a quarry of the proposed size so near to population centres and indeed so very close to a primary school.

Elevating Dean Quarry to a super quarry with all the associated noise, dust and light pollution is irresponsible so close to residential communities. This will threaten both the health and well-being of local residents. Glensanda Quarry in Scotland is 7 miles from the nearest road. To permit this development so close to homes, hamlets and villages would be a betrayal of all of us on The Lizard.

Shire Oak Quarries Ltd admit that they have not considered the (<PM2.5) which are known to have .

“”. Dr Richard Sharp

CADS have discussed different methods of managing dust with the site manager at Glensanda (a Super Quarry in Scotland), who said that however good the intentions it is impossible to stop it all. Quarry workers have masks and other respiratory protection.