The plans are being led by developers DDR (UK) Ltd. There are few details about the plans, other than it is likely to comprise of 135 newbuild homes and 45 housing association properties.

The quarry has claimed the lives of three young people between 2014 and 2017 and has led for calls for the water flooded crater to be filled in. More recently the site has been criticised after young people gathered there in breach of social distancing rules.

There is also demand for the quarry to be retained as a diving area, and the site is regarded as valuable for training purposes.

DDR has submitted a screening request, which will determine if an environmental impact assessment is required, The Courier reports.

It is understood that the developers plan to withdraw this and resubmit a new request to take into account the potential for the holiday chalets to link with recreational facilities at Letham Hill Woodland.

If the plans are approved, access to the site is likely to be from Preston Crescent and a new road to the north of Preston Crescent.

David Barratt, local SNP councillor, who will not be involved in any decisions on the plans, spoke to the developers earlier this month.

He said: “I met with the prospective developer of Prestonhill Quarry to understand what direction proposals were going in and to highlight areas of concern for the local community.

“I emphasised first and foremost the need to make the site safe but also the legitimate concerns around access and transportation, the need to protect and enhance the coastal path, the potential impact on the natural environment, the need to work with the residents in Preston Terrace and the wider community, and the need to protect and enhance access to open space.

“I welcome the willingness of the applicant to engage in this way and hope that along with discussion with the community, proposals can be shaped by local views prior to submission of a planning application.”

However, Mr Barratt said he had “reservations” about the number of new homes planned.

He added: “I’m encouraged by other aspects. I look forward to seeing more detail and approach it with an open mind.

“The idea of making greater use of Letham Hill Woodland is an interesting one and sounds like it has the potential to be something very positive for the area. Improved woodland walks? A high wire course? Zip-wire? Mountain biking? A lot is possible here.”