They claim the result of the blast at the Bird Road property was felt up to 10 kilometres away and was done without any consideration and against safety legislation.

Cr Nicolette Williams said the blast had both shocked and angered residents who had campaigned against AD Contractors’ application for an extractive industry licence from the City of Albany.

“It was a significant blast,” she said. “It’s no wonder the neighbours are up in arms.”

Cr Williams said many complaints were made to her and the City after the blast about 3pm last Friday.

“There are a lot of B and Bs and boutique accommodation in this area and many people were just arriving to stay for the long weekend,” she said. “To have this happen in a area marketed for its tranquillity is wrong.”

AD Contractors owner Brian Attwell said the test blast was done legally, with four nearby neighbours notified as required under the law.

He said a permit for the blast was given last December, and although it was louder than expected, that was the result of it being a test.

Mr Attwell said the blast was monitored for noise and vibration with results forwarded to the Mines Department, City and EPA.

Albany Mayor Milton Evans said local government had no legislative responsibility for blasting operations outside gazetted townsites.

“Blasting carried out at Bird Road is not subject to any permit of the City,” Mr Evans said. “The relevant regulations are overseen by the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection and other agencies.

“However, removal of any material from the site would constitute the operation of an extractive industry and would require approval.”