AN eight-year plan to regenerate a disused Dales quarry and transform it into an important tourist and recreational attraction has taken a major step forward.

The Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, which started working on a project to regenerate Mealbank Quarry, Ingleton, in 2002, is seeking the public’s views on what they would like to see there.

Residents were invited to Mealbank Hall on Tuesday to view the YDMT’s plans to create a visitor centre and make the inside workings of the quarry secure for tours. It is also hoped to interpret the history of the site.

“Mealbank Quarry could be a real asset for Ingleton, and plans to sensitively develop the site have been discussed for several years,” said YDMT’s project manager Don Gamble.

The quarry, which closed in 1910, is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument and Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its industrial archaeology, geology and nature conservation value.

Local archaeologist Jamie Quartermaine was at the consultation to explain the complex of buildings and tramways that once crossed the site.

During the 19th century it was a hive of industrial activity, centred around the now ruinous Hoffmann lime kiln. “We are all very excited about the project,” said Mr Quartermaine.

“It is the last remaining building which marks the limestone industry in this area. It is an important archaeology, geology and nature conservation site as well. ”

Since beginning the project the trust has gathered other groups to work on the plan including representatives of Ingleton Parish Council, Ingleborough Archaeology Group, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, English Heritage and Craven District Council under the umbrella of the Mealbank Quarry Development Group.

The project is being funded by the North Yorkshire Aggregates Grants Scheme, administered by YDMT and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.

Forty people attended the consultation and there was a lot of support for the project although concerns were raised about access to the quarry which is on a narrow road.

Some people suggested an open air theatre because of the shape of the quarry.

It is hoped that work will begin within a year.