Transport

Almost a half of all the rock quarried in the Mendips is transported by rail to depots across the south and south east of England. The remaining output is delivered by road to local markets in Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire as well as the urban centres of Bristol and Bath.

Over 90 per cent of lorries hauling stone from the Mendips are operated by independent owner-drivers or haulage contractors. Some of these trucks operate in the livery of member companies under a franchise scheme, but retain their independence.

The MQP is aware that one of the biggest single impacts the industry has on the environment is transport. We have a ‘code of good practice’ for hauliers which sets out high standards for vehicle condition and maintenance, driver conduct and customer care.

We also operate a ‘How’s my driving’ freephone service for members of the public to report issues of concern on the road. All our regular fleet carries a ‘How’s my driving’ sticker with the freephone number on the tailgate.