An application to extensively revitalise Halldale Quarry, off Snitterton Road, has been submitted and town councillors welcomed the scheme at a meeting on Monday.

Cllr Barrie Tipping said: "I think we should be welcoming a scheme like this and saying let's get on with it, let's get it done and bring Matlock in to the 21st Century. It is an imaginative scheme that will benefit the town."

Cllr Steve Flitter added: "This is the type of scheme we wanted for Cawdor and what did we end up with? We have got a chance to put that right."

The plans submitted by Halldale Properties Limited could see a multiplex cinema and leisure complex, a medical centre, business units, hotel and spa, backpackers' hostel, shops, car showrooms, business units and more than 700 car parking spaces on the 19.5 acre site. The quarry covers 61 acres in total.

Cllr Martin Burfoot said some residents had raised concerns about traffic, noise, light pollution and fears the development could take trade away from the town centre.

He added: "It is an absolutely massive application. I showed it to a neighbour and he couldn't stop laughing!"

Jo Pickford, speaking for Snitterton Road residents, said: "This application is way and above too large for the site. Although it is a big site this is almost like having a mini town outside Matlock when
the centre needs regenerating."

But David Kerford, director of GKA Planning and Design Limited, agents for the scheme, said the former stone quarry was a unique site and the project would bring employment and visitors to the town.

"We have worked very closely with the local authority to provide all the things Matlock does not have at the moment.

"It is quite a large scale development and one which will support the economic structure of Matlock and provide employment."

Matlock Town Council voted in favour of the outline plans but put forward a list of suggestions for the scheme.

Councillors are expected to vote on April 21.