The controversial expansion plans, lodged by quarry operator the Daracon Group, would see its annual output tripled resulting an increase in the number of freight vehicles and trains moving through the region.

The plans have sparked an outrage from Hunter communities.

Late last month, residents of Martins Creek, Paterson, Vacy, Gresford, Bolwarra and Maitland gathered at Tocal College to express a range of concerns including heritage impact, noise, air pollution, housing prices, environment and road congestion.

This week, Maitland councillors supported a motion to make a formal submission to the Department of Planning and Environment, objecting to the expansion plans as not in its "public interest".

The submission will outline council's concerns over heavy vehicle movements, traffic impacts and noise as a result of the revised Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

A council report identified the route as a regional road which attracts part funding from the State and Federal governments.

"As a regional road there are no restrictions for the use of heavy vehicles (32.5 tonne) as proposed for the Martins Creek Quarry expansion," it read.

"Truck noise and road maintenance is an issue for the community and council. The company has had communication with council regarding contributions under the existing Contributions Plan and has developed a Code of Conduct for drivers.

"However, the impacts on the overall road network, particularly the intersection of Pitnacree Road and Melbourne Street, East Maitland, have not been property considered, nor have appropriate mitigation measures been proposed.

"This, combined with ongoing concerns over noise impacts through Bolwarra and Bolwarra Heights in particular, mean there is the potential for significant impacts on the community that warrant further consideration and mitigation," the report said

. "The expansion is not in the public interest."