St Austell and Newquay MP Steve Double visited Cornwall’s leading supplier of aggregates, building blocks and concrete Maen Karne - part of the GRS Group - to find out more about the company’s contribution to sustainable construction.
During his visit to Maen Karne’s Melbur Works near Fraddon, half way between Newquay and St Austell, Steve learnt about the company’s role in transforming ‘secondary’ Cornish granite – a by-product of the china clay industry – into sought-after building materials such as aggregates, ready-mixed concrete and building blocks.
Besides supplying products for local development and infrastructure across the South West, the company also partners with London-based sister company Walsh to transport aggregates to London by sea and rail, helping to meet the capital’s demand for vital materials. Transporting these materials by sea and rail significantly reduces road miles and traffic congestion, producing a fraction of the carbon emissions of road haulage. It also brings welcome additional commercial traffic to both Fowey Docks and the local rail network.
With a keen interest in the success of Cornish businesses and sustainable development, Steve commented: “It was a pleasure to visit the Maen Karne depot and see for myself the operation. It was great to hear that business is booming for this local company that plays an essential role in our local economy. After the challenges of the past year we need businesses like Maen Karne to help us bounce back and provide the jobs that local people need. Thanks to Ross [Facey] and the team for showing me around and I wish them the very best for the future.”
Maen Karne’s Logistics and Strategy Director Ross Facey said: “We were delighted to host a visit from Steve Double. We’re proud of what we do and Steve’s visit was a great opportunity to showcase not only our contribution to local construction but also to the national agenda for more sustainable construction. Secondary Cornish granite is rated as one of the most sustainable aggregates available and, combined with transportation by sea and rail, Maen Karne achieves a greener supply chain for built development both regionally and nationally.”
