Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward visited Hindlow Quarry in Derbyshire to see the incredible work being done as part of the Peak Cluster project.
This exciting collaboration is bringing together industries across Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Cheshire to tackle carbon emissions and help build a greener future.
The Peak Cluster is all about capturing, transporting, and permanently storing CO2 from key industries, helping to reduce their environmental impact while keeping essential materials in production.
When it’s fully up and running in 2030, it’s set to cut over 3 million tonnes of CO2 emissions every year—an achievement that will make a huge difference to the region’s net zero ambitions.
While at Hindlow Quarry, the Mayor met with the team at Lhoist, a company leading the way in sustainable lime production. She learned about the jobs and apprenticeships they’ve created and the important role they’re playing in the Peak Cluster project.
Speaking after her visit, Mayor Claire said: “It’s inspiring to see what’s happening here at Hindlow Quarry and across the Peak Cluster. This isn’t just about cutting carbon emissions – it’s about protecting jobs, creating new opportunities, and building a future we can all be proud of. The East Midlands has a long history of innovation, and projects like this show how we’re continuing to lead the way.
“The Peak Cluster is proof that when industries, communities, and regional leadership come together, they can create real change. With projects like this, the East Midlands isn’t just working towards net zero – it’s shaping a better future for everyone.”
John Egan, Peak Cluster Project Director, Progressive Energy said: “It was fantastic to show the Mayor Claire around one of the five industrial sites in the Peak Cluster from which carbon dioxide emissions will be captured and then permanently stored.
“The UK’s cement and lime industry has been producing essential materials in Derbyshire and Staffordshire for over 100 years, evolving as times change.
“Peak Cluster will develop the infrastructure needed to transition into a low carbon future. In doing so, it will protect existing roles and create jobs whilst decarbonising 40% of the UK’s vital cement and lime industry.”