Plans to redevelop the 'Chalk Pit' site on College Road in Epsom have been met by a fierce backlash from residents in the area after they were submitted last month.

A petition titled 'Stop the Epsom Mineral Waste Recycling Plant Planning Permission' set up by opponents of the proposals has so far gained over 2,200 signatures, with groups including Epsom Civil Society and Ewell Downs Residents Association speaking out.

Residents opposing the proposals have voiced concerns about noise and air pollution, and about a type of 'silica' dust they fear might be produced by new development and work on the site.

The petition for example states that the owners of the site have "brought increased noise from high volume of haulage traffic and machinery, but most significantly, dust pollution causing issues for local schools and residents, and the green belt environment".

Further, it claims that the form of dust pollution in question is something known as respirable crystalline silica (RCS) or 'silica', which has been linked to several serious health issues.

The plans, which are available on the Surrey County Council (SCC) planning portal, were submitted by South West London recycling company NJB Recycling Ltd and entail the construction of new buildings to "enclose" waste and recycling activity on site.

NJB say they will benefit the community and do not amount to any change in activity to that which has occurred on site "over many years".

They face opposition from a number of groups, however.

In a statement opposing the plans for development at the site, Epsom and Ewell Labour Party's Mark Todd claimed the proposals could lead to adverse effects for the community:

"Tim Oliver and the Surrey Conservatives must immediately investigate this potentially dangerous mineral recycling plant now," he said.

"Many local residents have grave concerns over this shocking proposal to start mineral recycling next to homes and schools in Epsom.

"We call on the Surrey Conservatives, who are in charge of the planning process, to immediately commit to stopping the proposal if residents’ concerns turn out to be true.

"I also call on Surrey County Council to do a full review of the site’s other activities to ensure that it is safe for local residents and have any dangerous activities moved out straight away," Todd added.

Surrey Comet: The 'Chalk Pit' site on College Road, Epsom. The 'Chalk Pit' site on College Road, Epsom.

Amid rising concern from some residents in the area, NJB said their plans would benefit nearby communities and improve 'dust management' at the site.

In a statement seen by the Surrey Comet, the company said that a review of the site in line with the Environment Agency supported their proposals to construct "purpose built" enclosures at the site.

"NJB are a local company who have been operating in and around Epsom for over 20 years.

"Our first operation at the Chalk Pit commenced in the 1990’s. Eight years ago the main focus of our operations moved to Wimbledon, however in 2019 we returned to the Chalk Pit taking over the lease from 1st Place Grab and Skip Hire Limited in the south eastern corner of the site," a spokesperson for the company said.

"Following a review of the historic planning and operations at the site it was determined the best way of managing the site, in line with Environment Agency guidance, is to undertake the waste activities within purpose built enclosures.

"This has significant benefits relating to the management of dust, noise emissions and site drainage.

"Ultimately it will result in benefits for the local community.

"We are not seeking an increase in permitted tonnages or a change to the operations that have been taking place at the site over many years," they added.