Moyglare Stud's manager has threatened to relocate if a proposed limestone rock quarry at Kilcock, Co Meath goes ahead.

The manager of the nearby Maynooth-based Moyglare Stud, Stan Cosgrove, has appealed to An Bord Pleanála on foot of planning permission granted to Kilsaran Concrete for the quarry at Mulhussey in Kilcock.

He says the quarry would have a "detrimental effect on Irish racing worldwide" and on employment in the area.

Mr Cosgrove says Moyglare is in third or fourth position in the breeder/owner tables "not alone in Europe but in the world" and it is essential, for its success, to provide "a safe, secure, tranquil and peaceful environment" for the horses.

Exposure to dust from the proposed development "may have an adverse effect on the respiratory tracts of young foals".

Another concern was that the horses would also be affected by the noise from heavy goods vehicles.

"Pregnant mares will thrive in perfect conditions and race horses, which are highly sensitive by nature, should not be subjected to any deviation from the norm".

Moyglare Stud was one of six parties to appeal the quarry.

David Healy and Sheila O'Shea, who have an address at Kilcock, say that no effort was made by the developer "to inform the community as to the proposed development or to allay legitimate concerns".

They believe that the technical terms used in the planning application are "outside the scope of the average lay person".

Marion and Michael Yallop, who have an address at Mulhussey, Co Meath, say in their appeal that that small country roads in the vicinity are unsuitable for heavy vehicles and increased traffic.

Another appellant, Brian O'Carroll, says his house, on an elevated site, has so far enjoyed unobstructed views of the area which will radically change if the development goes ahead.

His house "would effectively sit on a box canyon situated on top of a plateau surrounded by a deep gorge".

Ciarán Murphy and Debbie O'Malley say the quarry is "incompatible" with the continuous use of Mulhussey National School and say it will be an "eyesore".