Company History
The History of National Quarries Company Limited
National Quarries Company Limited (NQCL) was established in 1979 as a state-owned enterprise to supply high-quality, low-cost aggregate materials for Trinidad and Tobago’s construction industry.
Recognizing the need for a structured approach to quarrying, the government tasked NQCL with ensuring the sustainable production of aggregates. The company began operations at its Sand & Gravel Division in Turure, Sangre Grande, with a workforce of 80 and a plant capacity of 500 tonnes per hour, producing an average of 200,000 to 250,000 cubic yards of washed aggregate annually. By maintaining government-controlled pricing, NQCL played a key role in stabilizing the market and supporting national infrastructure projects.
In 1982, NQCL expanded by acquiring the financially troubled William H. Scott’s quarry at Verdant Vale, now known as the Limestone Division. This acquisition was intended to enhance the company’s capacity to supply high-quality limestone aggregates. However, throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, efforts to fully develop Scott’s Quarry faced setbacks due operational inefficiencies and unsuccessful contractor arrangements. Despite these challenges, NQCL remained steadfast in its mission, investing in innovative solutions to improve extraction processes and enhance environmental sustainability. In 2003, NQCL approved the implementation of a mine design and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) developed by Herbert Sukhu (1987), marking a critical step toward sustainable and efficient quarrying practices.
Throughout its existence, NQCL has successfully delivered on its mandate by maintaining price stability, product quality, and a reliable supply of aggregates. Recently, the company conducted a comprehensive review of its operations and adopted a new strategic direction focused on commercial growth and profitability. This approach yielded significant results, with an impressive turnaround in both operational efficiency and overall business performance.
Today, National Quarries Company Limited continues to play a vital role in Trinidad and Tobago’s construction sector. By providing essential materials for infrastructure development and prioritizing responsible quarrying practices, NQCL upholds its commitment to sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship, ensuring the long-term viability of the nation’s aggregate supply.
Sukhu, Herbert Mc.Donald Morrison (1987). The Physical Planning and Evaluation of the National Quarries Company Limited, Limestone Quarry, Verdant Vale, Trinidad and Tobago, Exploration and Mining Geology Thesis, Chapters 3 & 8, pp. 11–14, 54–71, Mineral Exploitation Department, Faculty of Engineering, The University College of Cardiff, Wales, CF11XL, The Commonwealth Commission, London, UK.
The History of Quarrying in Trinidad & Tobago
The quarrying industry in Trinidad and Tobago has played a pivotal role in the country’s economic and infrastructural development. Its expansion dates back to the 1940s when the United States established military bases at Wallerfield, Chaguaramas, and Carlsen Fields, requiring vast amounts of aggregate materials. Scott’s Quarry, now part of NQCL’s Limestone Division, was among the key sites supplying these materials.
Following World War II, quarrying activities were revitalized to support road construction and national development efforts. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, as the country moved toward industrialization, the demand for aggregates surged, fueling the rise of complementary industries such as concrete block manufacturing and ready-mix concrete production. However, fluctuating supply levels led to material shortages and price increases, prompting the search for alternative aggregate sources.
By the 1970s, the petroleum boom spurred unprecedented growth in the construction sector, increasing the number of active quarries from 75 to 180. However, unauthorized extraction from state lands, environmental degradation, and unsafe quarrying practices became widespread concerns. The industry faced contractions in the 1980s due to declining oil prices, and many operations struggled to remain viable.
Recognizing the need for structured and sustainable quarrying, NQCL was established to bring stability to the sector, ensuring the efficient utilization of resources while adhering to environmental and regulatory standards. Today, the company continues to uphold these principles, maintaining its legacy as a trusted supplier in the nation’s quarrying industry.