The rail link at Heidelberg Materials UK’s Horton quarry in Yorkshire has been reinstated as part of the company’s strategy to improve its network of rail connected quarries and depots.
Horton quarry, which has been producing limestone and high-quality gritstone since 1889, is situated within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and its original rail siding was removed in 1965.
The newly constructed rail terminal at the quarry is undergoing testing. Once fully operational each rail movement will supply around 1,650 tonnes of aggregate to construction projects across the north west.
“The reopening of the rail link is fantastic news and has been years in the making,” said Becky Murphy, aggregates regional director at Heidelberg Materials UK.
“It will allow us to supply high-quality aggregate to major construction projects by rail, reducing vehicle movements on the wider road network and cutting associated CO₂ emissions.”
The reinstated line connects with the Settle to Carlisle railway line, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.
The work has been carried out by Duo Group, VolkerRail, and AECOM, in partnership with Network Rail, and the trains are being operated by GB Railfreight.
John Smith OBE, chief executive officer at GB Railfreight said: “Re-utilising sites like Horton Quarry are essential to growing rail freight – doing so makes our roads safer and improves air quality. Getting trains running from the Quarry again is testament to the hard work of many and I am delighted that GB Railfreight are running this service for Heidelberg Materials.”
Image credit: Heidelberg Materials
