Longcliffe Quarries Ltd enhances its logistics with 15 new Volvo trucks, boosting efficiency, sustainability, and safety as part of its commitment to quality service and reduced environmental impact.

Longcliffe Quarries Ltd, a leading provider of industrial minerals, has recently enhanced its logistics operation with the addition of 15 new ’24 plate Volvo trucks. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a modern, efficient fleet to deliver its range of high-quality products across the UK. With a focus on sustainability, safety, and operational efficiency, the new trucks are set to play a pivotal role in helping it continue its mission to meet growing customer demand while minimising its environmental impact.

Longcliffe Quarries, based in Derbyshire, is known for its dedication to both product quality and environmental responsibility. As part of its ongoing strategy to reduce its carbon footprint, the company has invested in Volvo FH Globetrotter 6×2 trucks equipped with the I-Save engine. These trucks offer a 500 bhp output and advanced fuel-saving features, such as lightweight axles that help achieve up to 10 miles per gallon (MPG). This not only leads to lower operating costs but also supports broader sustainability goals.

Paul Boustead, Group Managing Director, explains the rationale behind the investment: “We are continually investing in all aspects of our business, and our fleet is a key focus for our drive for improved efficiency. Based on the track record of new Volvos we’ve previously purchased, along with the I-Save engine advantages, we’re pleased to bolster our fleet with these new vehicles. Not only are they helping us with our sustainability goals, but they also offer safety improvements for drivers and vulnerable road users.”

Safety is a crucial consideration for Longcliffe, and the new trucks come equipped with a comprehensive safety package designed to protect both drivers and other road users. The vehicles are fitted with advanced technologies such as forward collision warning, an Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), side collision avoidance support, and driver alert systems. These features not only enhance driver awareness but also contribute to the overall safety of vulnerable road users.

Mark Dance, a Longcliffe Driver, highlights the admirable features of the new trucks: “The new vehicles are very comfortable and are a great all-around drive. The new side proximity sensors are a great assistant to help me detect vulnerable road users around the vehicle.”

The relationship with Hartshorne, the supplier of the new Volvo trucks, now spans several years. James Cowen, Managing Director at Hartshorne, emphasises the strength of this partnership: “We’ve been supplying Longcliffe Quarries since 2019, and we were delighted that they turned to the Hartshorne Group once more for this, their latest batch of Volvo trucks. These new vehicles feature the I-Save engine, which is not only kinder to the environment but also offers a range of safety features to support the driver. The new Volvo trucks are already on the road, so keep your eyes peeled.”

Founded nearly 100 years ago, Longcliffe Quarries is one of the few independently owned industrial mineral processing companies in the UK. Based in the Brassington area of Derbyshire, the company quarries over a million tonnes of carboniferous and dolomitic limestone annually. Limestone is one of the world’s most versatile minerals, essential in the production of everyday items, including animal feed, agricultural fertilisers, glass, and plasterboard.

As a family-run business, Longcliffe takes pride in its roots. Owned by the Shields family, Chairman Robert Shields DL, the great-grandson of founder John Shields, is actively involved in the day-to-day operations. Its commitment to quality and customer service is reflected in its loyal workforce, which includes drivers who have been with the company for many years.

“We’ve built a strong reputation over the years for providing exceptional service to our customers,” continues Paul Boustead “Our ethos has two clear and important goals: to provide our customers with the materials they need, when they need it, at the right price; and to pursue our business in a manner that is entirely sympathetic to the environment.”

In addition to its investment in fleet upgrades, Longcliffe is also focused on investing in its people and infrastructure. The company operates its own in-house logistics team, which schedules deliveries for its fleet of over 40 tankers and tippers. All drivers are full-time employees, many of whom have long service records and are trained to the industry-acclaimed FORS Silver standard. This in-house approach ensures that Longcliffe maintains full control over its delivery services, providing flexibility and reliability for customers.

The company also maintains a state-of-the-art garage facility at its Curzon Lodge transport hub, where skilled mechanics service and maintain all its quarry and delivery vehicles. This facility plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of its fleet, which operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Looking ahead, the company has set ambitious sustainability targets, including a goal to become carbon neutral to the weighbridge by 2030. Its ongoing investment in renewable energy, including two wind turbines that contribute power to the national grid, underscores its commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

As Longcliffe continues to evolve, its reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking business remains strong. By investing in the best vehicles, embracing sustainability, and prioritising safety, the company is well-positioned to meet the demands of its customers and contribute to the local economy for another century.   

Transport & Logistics – Driving The Industry Forward