DORSET: Newly-formed company, Lovell Purbeck has acquired the quarrying assets of D&P Lovell Quarries of Langton Matravers near Swanage, Dorset. 

Said Simon Hart, director at Lovell Purbeck: "We are delighted to have acquired long-term reserves of high quality Purbeck stone. This stone is special. We are putting significant investment into the company and will be launching a number of stone products in the near future."

The Lovell quarries on the Isle of Purbeck produce a wide range of limestones including blue, white and buff colours. The stone is traditionally used for building, walling, roof tiling, paving and hard landscaping.

It has been used throughout southern England since Roman times and more recently has been used on projects in Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey and Poundbury, Dorchester. Paving is also currently being supplied to Southampton for use in conservation areas.

The company recently obtained planning permission to quarry significant reserves of viviparus (Purbeck marble) and burr limestone.

Lovell Purbeck is owned by the Hart family. They have existing quarrying interests through Forest Pennant in the Forest of Dean.