Clipper Logistics is to operate a freight consolidation project for the Newcastle University campus aimed at reducing the need for lorries and vans to enter the university grounds.
At the moment deliveries are made direct to 226 points on the campus. Under the new system goods will be consolidated at Clipper’s site at Wynyard Park just outside Billingham, before being delivered by an electric vehicle to nine drop-off zones on the campus.
Tom Zunder, rail freight and logistics research group manager at the university, said: “We aim to reduce vehicle usage on campus by around 25 per cent, which will lead to a cleaner, safer environment for all our staff and students.
“Additionally, through a consolidated and regular delivery by electric vehicle, we aim to significantly reduce carbon emissions by up to 90 tonnes per year. This project has been a collaborative effort and we look forward to reaping the commercial and environmental benefits, well into the future.”
Clipper chief Tony Mannix said: “Clipper are respected as one of the UK’s leaders in retail consolidation solutions. This contract brings those same benefits to the academic arena, by helping to create a cleaner and less congested space. We’re certain that students and staff of The University will soon see the rewards.”
The collaboration is co-funded by the EU, Clipper, Newcastle University and other partners, as part of the Smartfusion project funded by the European Commission.
