Over the last few weeks you may have seen the announcement regarding the merger of the Institute of Quarrying with the National Stone Centre (NSC) at Wirksworth in Derbyshire. We have set out our vision and purpose for the project and our aspirations for the future in our communications to members.
This exciting move marks an inspirational new chapter in the history of the Institute and will enable us to continue our mission to advance the science and practice of quarrying. Our collective aim is to engage, inspire and educate the wider public and our industry on the underpinning science of geology, the importance of the materials our sector produces, its rich history and the critical role it will play in the environmental and sustainability agenda in the future.By bringing the two organisations together, we can deliver more for our members, the industry and the public. As our vision sets out, we will be working to develop a centre of excellence recognised both in the UK and internationally. We will support the activities of the NSC, enabling them to build on their 40 year history in promoting stone and its importance to our society.
The relocation of our offices to the NSC means we will be able to visibly demonstrate the compelling story of the industry; how it has evolved through its history to the high standards it operates to today and the valuable contribution it makes for local communities and the environment.
The site also offers huge scope for additional membership value. The facilities available at the NSC provide new opportunities for us to expand our services for members and the quarrying and mineral products industry.
Over the next few months we will be busy working to engage with members, the industry and others to help us shape the future of the site. Members will be regularly updated with progress as we develop our plans for new buildings and facilities.
I have highlighted in previous columns that our sector will be critical to the economic recovery both in the UK and globally. We are working hard to deliver our products in a way that supports the zero-carbon targets and the wider sustainability agenda. It is crucial that we can help educate wider society in the role we are playing. By locating ourselves in the heartland of our sector we can highlight its importance and showcase what the sector is doing.
As a long-standing member and President, I am proud and excited to be part of a project that will help deliver more for members, whilst also celebrating our great profession. As we transition to our new home, I will be encouraging members to visit us and the NSC facilities to see our plans for the future.
There is no better time to get involved with the Institute and help us make our next 20 years the best yet. Visit www.quarrying.org/nationalstonecentre for the latest news and updates on the project and contact us if you have ideas that you would like to contribute.