Plans for a diving school had been rejected

The lease holder of Dorothea Quarry, Glyn Small, said problems over plans for a diving school and his recent ill health have prompted the move.

Court proceedings between the lease holder and the previous owner over alleged non-payments are continuing.

Mr Small said the number of deaths at the lake had influenced his decision.

The quarry lake - up to 300ft deep in places with a network of flooded tunnels and sheer drops - is a favourite training location for amateur divers from across the UK.

Estate agents Strutton Parker are handling the sale of the quarry in the Nantlle Valley which is on the market for �1.35m

If diving is brought to an end it will mean divers will move to much more dangerous and remote quarries Plaid Cymru MP Hywel Williams

Mr Small said he wanted to set up a diving school at the lake.

Caernarfon's Plaid Cymru MP Hywel Williams said: "I'm glad to see it is for sale - I think it was called the 'Quarry of Death' in one newspaper and it's where six or seven people have lost their lives in the past 18 months.

"I think it is a fantastic opportunity - if someone can spend �1.35m to buy it and �1.35m to develop it then potentially it is a very good business.

"I hope it will be developed as a properly resourced diving centre and as an area for the general public."

Mr Williams said divers had told him the site was very popular and he added, "If diving is brought to an end it will mean divers will move to much more dangerous and remote quarries."