21.05.2012

UPS and LOCOG look to the Thames for Olympics delivery

Bennett's Barges Media Release

With London’s busy transport network expecting even greater pressure in the coming months, UPS and LOCOG are looking to find the most reliable, cost effective and responsible method of transporting bulk deliveries into the Olympic Park.

Thursday 17th May saw the first trial of delivery by water in conjunction with The Port of Tilbury and marine logistics experts, Bennett’s Barges. The containers and their contents were loaded on to a Bennett’s barge at the Port of Tilbury. A Bennett’s tug then navigated the 350T barge to a location close to the Olympic Park.

This trial illustrated how UPS and LOCOG are aiming to;

• take bulk cargo off London’s busy roads, protecting other road users (e.g. cyclists) and avoid additional congestion
• utilise barges that can transport 100’s of tonnes in a single journey, compared to 20 tonnes for a large lorry
• demonstrate the investment that has gone into preparing the river and waterways for bulk transportation

Chris Livett, MD of Bennett’s Barges and Waterman to H.M. The Queen, commented "The City of London grew around the River Thames and connected waterways. Employing barges for bulk delivery removes this freight and reduces the number of lorries on our overcrowded roads. The waterways provide a cost effective, environmentally sustainable and reliable route into the Olympic Park. This morning’s delivery demonstrates LOCOG’s commitment to relieving London’s busy road network".