Shut Whatley Quarry

At the EF! gathering in Lancashire, it was decided to go for a huge national hit on Amey Roadstone Corporation's (ARC) Whatley Quarry in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. Come and see this massive hole created by the dark forces of industrial capitalism - and get your own back! This will be a totally memorable event, bringing in as many new people as possible, showing them the power of direct action.

Whatley Superquarry is one of EF!'s longest running campaigns. ARC are one of the biggest quarriers in the South West. They are systematically digging up the Mendip Hills in Somerset (and many other places) to supply the roadstone for many of the roads that we are fighting. Stone from Whatley was used to build the road through Twyford Down. Actions against Whatley occurred throughout '92 and '93 as ARC aggressively fought to expand the quarry to double its existing size (it’s already one of the largest holes in Europe). This campaign, in conjunction with many other groups - Friends of the Earth, local community groups, Druids etc., succeeded and ARC were refused permission in '94. But, ARC are now re-applying to widen and deepen this giant hole. We've not gone away and we'll win again - tough shit ARC! Local EF! and Freedom Network groups have already restarted actions. This national action is in solidarity with these groups.

We've got 2 months to pull this off. The action will be a joint effort between as many groups as possible. Start mobilising now in your own area, get as many people involved as possible and start organising transport. Please come prepared for an action & bring what you'd expect to find. There will be a full training and information day on Sunday 3rd December from midday, at a campsite near the quarry This day will give you chance to decide your level of involvement. There will be a camping barn and also we'll make a big fire to keep warm! The action will be on Monday 4th December and we will shut down the superquarry. The camp will be alcohol and dog free. Being pissed in a dangerous quarry is not cool, for you or people relying on you.

Bring tents/marquees, waterproofs, food, musical instruments, vehicles and anything else which you think will make the day run more smoothly! Posters & leaflets are available to start photocopying & distributing (use the poster enclosed to start networking this action).

Contacts: 01935 825074, 01404 815729, 01635 521770, 01508 531636, 01222 383363, 01225 448556 (any other group who wish to be a contact get in touch).