Mealbank Quarry in the 19th Cenuty (Y.D.M.T)

Residents of a picture postcard Yorkshire Dales are being asked to come up with ideas about what to do with the site of an ancient quarry that was abandoned 100 years ago.

Ingleton is one of those “honey pot” villages in the Dales visited by thousands of tourists every year and Mealbank Quarry, which closed in 1910, has been scheduled as an ancient monument because of its historic interest.

Now, Ingleton residents are being invited to find out about the quarry’s history and how it could become a recreational and tourism asset for their area.

Several organisations are working together to develop proposals for the quarry. It is a matter of some delicacy because it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its industrial archaeology, geology and nature conservation value.

The Mealbank Quarry Development Group will hold a public event at the quarry on Tuesday 8th June for local people and visitors to hear about its past and its rich industrial and natural history, and to discuss what they would like to see happen to the site in the future.

Don Gamble, of the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, said: “Mealbank Quarry could be a real asset for Ingleton, and plans to sensitively develop the site have been discussed for several years.

“We’re very keen to hear from anyone interested, but particularly from residents, and we hope as many people as possible will be able to join us and add their ideas to the ones we have.”

The event will be held at Mealbank Hall at the quarry. Visitors are invited to drop-in between 2.30pm and 6pm when they can view historic photographs, look at possible new uses, share their knowledge about the quarry, and give ideas.

There will be guided tours around the normally closed site at 3pm, 4pm and 5pm. From 6.30-7.30pm there will be a formal presentation and discussion. There is no need to book, but for further details please contact Don Gamble on 015242 51002 or email don.gamble@ydmt.org

The Mealbank Quarry Development Group includes representatives of Ingleton Parish Council, Ingleborough Archaeology Group, the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, English Heritage and Craven District Council. The Group has recently commissioned Capita Symonds Heritage Management Services to research possible new uses for the site and produce a report that will inform the future management and access of the site.