Transport efficiency project in full swing
A project to identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs in beet transport is well under way
Sugar Beet Transport Efficiency Study
Improving the efficiency and sustainability of sugar beet growing and processing are key objectives for both the National Farmers Union and British Sugar.
In line with these objectives, the NFU and British Sugar commissioned a study to review the current operation and look at areas which could improve the efficiency of sugar beet transport from farms to the processing sites at Wissington, Cantley, Newark and Bury St Edmunds.
The study is being partly funded by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and the East Midlands Development Agency (EMDA).
Independent transport consultants, WSP and Transport and Travel Research Ltd (TTR) have been appointed to carry out the project work, which has now commenced and will report during autumn 2009.
The consultants have begun a series of consultations with industry stakeholders including growers and hauliers. The information provided will remain confidential within the project team and will be used by the consultants solely for the purpose of the study.
This survey work will be crucial in understanding the costs associated with the current operation and in identifying possible areas for efficiency improvements.
If you are contacted by the consultants, we hope that you will give them your assistance and will complete the survey, providing as much information as possible to inform the study.
In addition to the telephone surveys, a project email address sugarbeetstudy@wspgroup.com has been set up to allow all growers to express their views on current arrangements for beet transport from farm to processing sites, the associated costs and where possible efficiency improvements could be made.
