Statement from Stancliffe Stone, the dimensional stone company owned by Marshalls PLC that operates 11 quarries .

Stancliffe Stone’s Managing Director, Mike Faughy, made the following statement on 1 August: "I can confirm that the consultation period has now come to an end by mutual agreement, this has affected 49 positions at the Grangemill Site.

"At this time I’m pleased to report that a significant number of people have already secured, or are very close to securing, alternative employment. The outplacement support from global HR services group Penna, tp assist people in securing alternative employment was well received by those who attended.

"Stancliffe Stone remains committed to its people and to ensuring the long term viability of the business by continuing to improve customer service and remain competitive in this challenging environment through the effective use of our production and distribution capability throughout the UK.”

Stancliffe Stone supplies natural stone to building contractors, merchants and home owners, and has been directly impacted by well documented pressures on the housing market. The company says there are currently no further plans for any more rationalisation.