UK quarry rail link reopens after 60 years
The rail link at Horton quarry in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, UK, has been reinstated.
The Heidelberg Materials’ quarry, which has been producing limestone and high-quality gritstone since 1889, is situated within the National Park and its original rail siding was removed in 1965.
When fully operational, each rail movement from the quarry is anticipated to supply around 1,650t of high-quality aggregate to construction projects across the northwest.
The newly constructed rail terminal at the quarry is undergoing testing.
The rail link is aimed to reduce vehicle movements on the wider road network and cut associated CO₂ emissions.
The reinstated line connects with the Settle to Carlisle railway line and 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.
