According to a recent report published by consultant economist Kevin Butler, re-opening Dean Quarry in southern Cornwall could generate £140-190 million for the local economy. The Shire Oak Quarries group commissioned the
report.

Mr Butler said: “Dean Quarry is an important economic asset for Cornwall, with the potential to bring substantial economic benefits to the immediate locality and to the wider region.

“It would create well-paid non-seasonal jobs, and the intention is that most of its operating budget would be spent locally — ideally, within a 25-mile radius of the quarry. This would create a net positive impact valued at millions of pounds a year.”

Shire Oak Quarries is hoping to become a supplier of rock armour for the proposed Swansea Bay tidal-lagoon project.

This is subject to securing the contract from China Harbour Engineering Co, which has been commissioned to build the £300 million lagoon wall. If successful, Shire Oak intends to transport rock from the quarry by sea.