Rock for railways
Dean Quarries
There is a huge demand for crushed rock (aggregate) in the UK. Every year the mineral industry supplies around 4 tonnes of aggregate per person.
The rocks along the coast between Porthhoustock and Porthallow are ideal for railways. The gabbro rocks can be quarried and crushed to produce aggregate.
Large pieces of rock are used to build protective sea walls. The crushed rock is particularly suitable for the ballast that supports railway sleepers.
Submitted by: Andrew Hunt, 05 June 2004
