SNH has objected to the aplication by Angle Park Sand and Gravel Company Ltd. to expand its existing quarry at Melville Gates into part of North Annsmuir Wood, with the environment body saying the proposal would adversely affect the existing red squirrel population.

Angle Park intends to extract 975,000 tonnes of sand and gravel over six and a half years, with another year of restoration to follow.

As the Fife Herald reported last month, Fife Coast and Countryside Trust and residents of nearby Annsmuir Park Homes have also lodged objections to the scheme.

However, SNH has not objected on landscape issues, public access provision or the impact on bat roosts and breeding birds, although it has suggested conditions to secure appropriate restoration of the area.

Forth and Borders area manager Iain Rennick said red squirrels were protected by legislation and considered a species for conservation action.

"There is insufficient information in the proposal to clearly demonstrate reasonable precautions will be taken to protect and sustain a viable population of red squirrels both during and after operations," Mr Rennick told Fife Council.