The developer submitted a development application for preliminary approval to the council in March 2016, proposing the master-planned site with residential and recreational land, including a potential rock climbing site.

The quarry is currently operating and has been producing granite products for more than 60 years.

As the resources at the site are close to depletion it is understood under the master plan that quarrying activities will be gradually phased out and eventually ceased with redevelopment works scheduled to commence in 2019.

The preliminary approval gives the green light to the site for development, but for any development to actually occur further development permits and approvals would be required.

City planning chairman Julian Simmonds said the redevelopment would ensure the council was on track to accommodate the region’s growing population.

“The proposed master plan includes up to 700 new dwellings across two precincts, which will offer a range of low to medium density housing types, as well as a sport and recreation precinct and a conservation precinct,” he said.

“The sport and recreation precinct is to be focused on delivering new green space and outdoor activities such as mountain bike trails or mountain climbing, which will deliver new lifestyle and leisure opportunities for residents living in the area, and provide an inviting new area for the community and neighbouring residents to enjoy.”