The plant contributes around £8 million annually to the local economy and supports approximately 130 jobs. Its private rail network significantly reduces CO emissions associated with road haulage, while an ongoing transition toward net zero includes the increased use of alternative fuels such as solid recovered fuel (SRF). Environmental performance is closely regulated by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), reinforcing the site’s commitment to responsible and sustainable production.

CRL Scotland are currently delivering critical structural repairs to the plant’s stacker rail system, safeguarding the reliability of a key operational asset within this nationally significant facility. Excavation works to expose the existing stacker rail foundation revealed deterioration more extensive than initially anticipated. The compromised concrete is removed using hydro-demolition to ensure controlled removal and protection of the surrounding structural elements.

Following exposure and assessment of the existing reinforcement, additional steel and tie-ins to the cross walls are installed to enhance the structural capacity. The foundation is then shuttered and re-cast to modern standards. Upon completion, the new stacker rail is accurately positioned and welded into place, restoring full operational functionality and strengthening the long-term resilience of the asset.
Critical Repairs at Dunbar Cement Plant
Kenneth Campbell
02/03/26
The Dunbar Cement Plant, operated by Tarmac and located in East Lothian, is Scotland’s only cement manufacturing facility. Producing approximately 700,000 tonnes of cement each year, the site integrates limestone extraction from the adjacent Dunbar Quarry with on-site processing and dedicated rail infrastructure, enabling efficient distribution across the UK.
1 of 4
1 of 4