Scottish quarries pledge to be good neighbours

Following successful trials at 29 sites across the UK during the past year, the Quarry Products Association's Good Neighbour scheme has been launched in Scotland by George Lyon MSP. Developed with extensive feedback from quarry managers, the scheme aims to minimise any disturbance caused by quarries to local residents and demonstrate the quarrying industry's willingness to be good neighbours.

QPA Scotland members include large and small companies operating 100 quarries and other manufacturing plants throughout Scotland. The membership represents over 80% of aggregate production in Scotland, and those sites which sign up will work to a strict set of principles contained in a simple code of practice - the Good Neighbour Pledge.

As a guarantee of each site's commitment to the scheme, the pledge will be displayed at site entrances and in local libraries, shops and schools. A clearly visible contact name and phone number will be displayed on each poster for local residents to use if they have a query or concern about the site. By joining the scheme, each site agrees to abide by the pledge and respond to enquires within 36h.

Simon van der Byl, director general of the QPA, said: 'As a responsible industry, we are committed to building better relationships with local communities. The aim of the Good Neighbour Scheme is to clarify and personalise that commitment and encourage two-way communication between local communities and their local quarry. We will encourage as many Scottish members as possible to sign up to the Good Neighbour Pledge.'