The Institute of Quarrying has revealed it has made “significant strides” in the plans to create a Centre of Excellence at the National Stone Centre (NSC) in Derbyshire.
Institute of Quarrying president Ben Williams updated members by announcing that core funding had been secured for the project.
“We are advancing into the next stage, focusing on finalising the detailed design. This phase will establish the centre’s layout, functionality, and preferred construction method, ensuring that we showcase the best industry products in creating an efficient and sustainable building,” he wrote.
“On the ground tangible progress is evident, with site surveys and test drilling recently conducted as part of the preparatory work leading to the construction phase. Having been involved in this initiative for over five years, it is incredibly rewarding to see these advancements taking shape.”
Previously, plans had been released for a £6.5m transformation of the National Stone Centre (NSC). The centre is designed to be a destination that the quarrying and minerals products industry can use to engage its employees and other stakeholders vital to the future of the sector.
“The centre will celebrate the past, present and the future of geology and the minerals industry. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we are strengthening our ability to deliver on all three aspects,” Williams wrote.
“This project is truly collaborative, as demonstrated by the involvement of the Mineral Products Qualification Council (MPQC) and the Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT), whose contributions will further solidify the centre as a hub for industry standards and excellence.”
