A mine in western Quebec has become so popular with tourists that officials have been given the ultimatum of turning the site into either a fully-fledged tourism attraction or destroying it to “secure” the beauty spot.

The abandoned Wallingford-Back mine – which used to mine quartz and feldspar – has been slowly growing in popularity as a tourism hot spot since its closure as an active site in 1972. A recent surge in popularity thanks to increased social media presence has meant Quebec's Energy and Natural Resources Department (ENRD) has asked the state’s regional municipality to recommend one of the two options.

The mine – around 70km (43.5m) from Ottawa – does not have any facilities, and visitors regularly block the narrow road that leads there with their cars. It’s cathedral-esque space is supported by giant rock pillars, also featuring turquoise waters thanks to the mineral composition of the site.

If the mine is demolished, its vault entrances would be destroyed by dynamiting the surface pillars.

A public petition was launched at the start of this month, garnering more than 4,100 signatures in favour of saving the mine.

“This site should be preserved because it is an undeniable richness for all of Quebec,” said the group who started the petition. “Several studies have been conducted to prove without a shadow of a doubt all recreational and tourism opportunities, cultural, educational and scientific of this unique place.”

If the municipality opts for the tourism project, a workgroup would develop a viable business plan, which would include taking on legal and financial responsibilities for the site. The mine would then be equipped with new amenities and safety features. In the summer visitors come to swim, kayak and rock climb. In the winter, the site turns into a giant underground ice skating rink.