Dec 13 2006
British Waterways, Transport for London and Powerday plc are urging west London businesses to consider transporting waste by barge on the Grand Union Canal. The move follows the completion of a new wharf at Old Oak Sidings in Willesden Junction to service Powerday's state-of-the-art recycling centre which opens next year. Built by Powerday and funded by Transport for London and British Waterways, the £450,000 wharf is part of a package of measures to revive canal freight on west London's canals. Studies have indicated that the 26-mile, lock-free stretch of waterway could accommodate 500,000 tonnes of material each year and offer a cleaner and, in some instances, cheaper alternative to road haulage.
Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, said: 'Transporting recyclable waste materials on London's waterways will help to reduce congestion on the capital's roads and reduce the harmful emissions which are causing climate change and air pollution. Transport for London has funded the rejuvenation of this stretch of canal to encourage this cleaner method of transport, and to service a brand new recycling centre. This will help businesses in London manage their waste in a more sustainable way.'
Transport for London's Commissioner, Peter Hendy, said: "Reducing freight traffic helps tackle congestion and improve air quality in the Capital. Canals were originally built to carry heavy goods and, with a little investment, they can once again play a role in taking freight off London's roads."
Richard Rutter, British Waterways London regeneration manager, adds: "This new wharf is a crucial next step in reviving freight on west London's canals. Old Oak Wharf lies in the heart of the West London Canal Network, with its 26-mile lock free section between Camden and Slough. We are appealing to waterside businesses and developers in West London to consider moving their waste, recyclables and construction materials by water - a quieter, cleaner and more fuel efficient transport option than road haulage and we hope this project will lead to the creation of a network of waterside collection and distribution points across west London."
As well as providing a platform to unload boats, Old Oak Wharf has an access ramp, allowing lorries to transfer cargo directly to Powerday's new plant. The centre also benefits from excellent rail connections, offering the chance to see a further 500,000 tonnes of material moved by rail.
Vince O'Shea, strategic development director of Powerday, said: "We are building one of the most efficient recycling centres in the UK and with excellent canal and rail connections, we aim to significantly reduce the carbon emissions involved in transporting materials to and from our plant. Old Oak Wharf offers businesses located alongside the Grand Union Canal and its Paddington Arm, including many of the Park Royal companies, the opportunity to consider transferring their materials by water."
Powerday's recycling centre is due to open early next year and will be capable of processing 1.6million tonnes of waste each year, recycling 88% of materials. Non-time sensitive cargo such as construction materials, waste and recyclables are the focus for movement by water.