News
Preymesser Logistics, which opened in Swindon last year has been deemed a massive success by contributing to the environmental friendliness of Swindon and adding to regeneration and business moving forward in the area.
A new, purpose built railhead facility opened in Swindon in December 2006 to help bring steel into the UK for the production of BMW Group's MINI. It came as a result of a considerable amount of hard work from all parties involved, including Preymesser and The New Swindon Company.
In the latter part of 2005, BMW Group's partner company began looking into logistics for handling steel for the new MINI for delivery to the company's pressings plant in Swindon on a "Just in Time" basis. The continued growth in MINI sales and the launch of the new MINI Clubman led to a search for a suitable site that could facilitate a railhead capable of transporting steel, by rail, from around the UK, quickly.
The Hawksworth Industrial Estate was deemed the best choice, however it had been previously earmarked for an out-of-town business site as part of The New Swindon Company?s Regeneration Framework.
This is where Swindon Borough Council stepped in, and thanks to their support and that of EP, SWRDA and The New Swindon Company, planning was granted in April 2006. Groundworks began in August 2006 and the railhead was completed by December 2006.
Now steel is brought from UK ports in Immingham & Goole and a Corus steel mill in Llanwern by rail. Only the final 1.9 miles of the journey is taken by road, saving a hugely impressive 10,000 road trips and approximately 1.84 million road miles. These figures clearly speak for themselves when considering the positive impact on the environment.
Barry Lingard, of BL Associates working with Preymesser who was instrumental in successfully delivering the project, commented: "This project has been a major success for Swindon. It sought no government support and has been fully funded by Preymesser, bringing a multi million pound, foreign investment to the area and securing local jobs, especially for employees of BMW Group."
Peter James, Chief Executive of The New Swindon Company added: "Preymesser Logistics has been a resounding success. The fact that we can save so much road travel really makes a big difference to the environment. I believe we are giving a really strong message for regeneration, business and environmental issues in Swindon, and I hope we will see this continued success from future plans. We are delighted to have been able to be involved and support this project - it's an excellent example of successful partnership working."
Last year Honda embarked on a trial to utilise Preymesser having been impressed by the advanced facilities and the environmental savings and advantages. Following the trials success they are now looking to build on these advantages.
Wednesday 16th January 2008