The MP for St Austell and Newquay has paid a visit to one of Cornwall’s leading supplier of aggregates, building blocks and concrete to learn about their sustainable production practices.

Steve Double MP paid a visit to Maen Karne to find out more about the company’s contribution to sustainable construction.

During last week’s tour of Maen Karne’s Melbur Works near Fraddon, 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.

Falmouth Packet: Steve Double spoke to Ross Facey and Steve Gardiner of Maen Karne on his visit.Steve Double spoke to Ross Facey and Steve Gardiner of Maen Karne on his visit.

Besides supplying products for local development and infrastructure across the South West, the company – part of the nationwide GRS Group – also partners with London-based sister company Walsh to transport aggregates to the capital by sea and rail, in order to meet London’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.

Read Next:

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.

Falmouth Packet: Maen Karne’s Logistics and Strategy Director Ross Facey, St Austell and Newquay MP Steve Double and Site Manager at Maen Karne’s Melbur Plant Steve Gardiner.Maen Karne’s Logistics and Strategy Director Ross Facey, St Austell and Newquay MP Steve Double and Site Manager at Maen Karne’s Melbur Plant Steve Gardiner.

"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.

Falmouth Packet: The MP visited the company's Melbur Works HQ in Newquay. The MP visited the company's Melbur Works HQ in Newquay.

"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."