Two Conservative councillors donned their hard hats last and paid a visit to Chipping Sodbury Quarry.
The quarry hosted Cllrs Liz Brennan and Becky Romaine, who got the chance to explore the site and inspect its operations.
Liz and Becky spoke to the workforce and discussed geology, blasting and the numerous career and apprenticeship opportunities available on site.
The 500-acre quarry, which is situated along a ridge that stretches north to Wickwar and Cromhall, produces roughly 1 million tonnes of limestone aggregates every year. It is a significant local employer and regularly hosts tours and open days for members of the local community.
Cllr Liz Brennan, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group on South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It was a pleasure to visit Chipping Sodbury Quarry, and it was a real learning experience. The quarry is a big local employer that offers some brilliant apprenticeships to our young people.
“There is some real positive work going on to improve local biodiversity, especially with initiatives relating to the production of carbon neutral concrete.”
Cllr Becky Romiane, South Gloucestershire’s ward councillor for Chipping Sodbury and Cotswold Edge, said: “It was a very enjoyable day, seeing the quarry up close and personal. It has been operating for more than 100 years, so it was a real privilege to taste some real local history.
“The site supports several priority habitats and species such as great crested newts and otters, all of which are carefully managed and protected.
“I would like to thank the team for hosting me and Liz and, as the local ward councillor, I look forward to continuing to work with them to the benefit of Chipping Sodbury long into the future.”
In June this year the quarry held a special open day, which attracted over 700 visitors. Attendees enjoyed tours, interactive exhibits about quarry operations and local wildlife initiatives.
