An interesting, lovely walk with the quarry workings on one side and the start of a nature reserve on the other.
If you are walking with dogs, please keep them on a lead at all times whilst strolling down this footpath. Don't let your children wander off either.
The quarry is an important source of sand and gravel for construction projects across the East of England and into London, it was originally opened in 1969. The existing quarry was around 190 acres in size but has been extended quite a lot in recent years, the initial plans were to extend it by another 40 acres. Future plans also included the creation of habitats for nature conservation and greater biodiversity, wild flower meadows and water features, meaning greater public access to enjoy the newly landscaped setting, although when this will be is a little unknown at the moment.
The materials produced here have been used in major local projects including nearby reservoirs, the football club of the town and the rebuilding of some of the garrison. It also provides materials for local housing and road schemes, as well as countless smaller building jobs.
Some products are transported further afield by rail, using rail sidings at Marks Tey and have been used in high profile projects at locations such as two major airports. Horticultural products have successfully been used in the development of high profile football pitches.
The quarry operates Monday to Friday 7.30am - 4.30pm but is closed on Weekends and Bank Holidays.
This short walk is a relaunch of the old walk, still with four caches. Two caches are in the same location (but new caches) and two are in different locations. I would have liked to have five or six on the walk, but the caches couldn't go where I wanted them to as the co-ordinates didn't fit.
This is the fourth and final cache of the walk. Remember to bring a pen. Tweezers may be useful here. Happy caching.