A BUYER with a vision is being sought to buy the disused Giggleswick Quarry, near Settle.

Quarry operator Hanson closed the site ten years ago after successfully extracting all its limestone reserves.

And now it has put the 31-acre site, which sits firmly inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park, on to the market.

Agents Dacre, Son and Hartley, which is looking after the sale from its Settle office, said a guide price was not being put on the quarry, but that the telephone had already been ringing with inquiries.

“This has to be one of the most unusual properties we’ve ever handled and it represents a fabulous opportunity for the right buyer," said manager Jason Preston.

"It’s a truly unique opportunity, in a stunning location, at the southern end of Giggleswick Scar."

Development of the quarry will be subject to permission being given by the national park planning authority, which has indicated in its local development plan that around six acres in the base of the quarry could be suitable for 'employment use'.

Mr Preston said: " It will interest businesses that require a vast outdoor storage space or it could offer a dramatic backdrop for a wide range of leisure activities, subject to planning.

“It has the added benefit of being in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, but still within walking distance of all Settle’s amenities and its road and rail links, as well as offering easy access to Skipton and the M6, which will further enhance its appeal with leisure businesses.”

The 31-acre site is less than a mile from the centre of Settle and is surrounded by stepped benches, up to a height of around 100 feet, and a large, flat area in the centre.

Hanson UK communications manager David Weeks said: “This quarry has provided a vital supply of limestone for local use for many years and employed many local people. We would love to see the site being put to beneficial after-use.”

To find out more about Giggleswick Quarry, visit the website dacres.co.uk