The Annesley Bentinck Mine Group had hoped to use excavated soil from the scheme to widen the M1 motorway between junctions 28 and 25 to fill in the Kirkby tip site.

But Ashfield District Council planning chiefs blocked the controversial proposals on Thursday amid fears it would create major flooding problems during periods of heavy rain.

Concerns were also raised that the procedure would affect a number of undisturbed explosives and de-stabilise the former mine.

After the meeting, Selston councillor Gail Turner –– who was speaking on behalf of the Selston Area Residents Association which opposes the scheme –– told Chad the decision was good news for the area.

"If the lagoons were filled in the capacity to absorb rainwater would be reduced and lead to big flooding problems for people living close to the site," she said. "The area would be turned into a swamp during heavy rain.

"We were initially misled into believing this scheme would help restore the pit. Filling in the pit like this is just a short-term solution and will not lead to restoration. We are very happy that this decision has been turned down."

Her views were backed by resident Ann Swain, who said that Bentinck Void should now be turned into a local beauty spot.

"The site is very close to where I live and I am delighted that the application has been turned down," she said. "I have lived in the area all my life, my dad worked there and I care a lot about Bentinck Void.

"We need to see Bentinck restored and made beautiful. It has to be turned into a nice area that the whole community can enjoy and can be proud of."