Foulger holds crunch talks over Norwich CC future
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Chris TindU FOULGER TRANSPORT is having crunch talks with Norfolk County Council this week to discuss the future of its retail consolidation centre.
The Snetterton-based company won a contract two years ago to run the freight transhipment site, which aims to reduce congestion and emissions in central Norwich.
But low take-up among retailers and the economic downturn have proven stumbling blocks for both the firm and the council.
The consolidation centre has now been rebranded PortalNorwich, and a greater emphasis has been placed on its green credentials in order to boost business.
Graham Mayes, Foulger Transport's business development manager, says the tactic, along with economic pressures on retailers, is creating interest among Norwich's businesses.
"I certainly think there were some people out there that wouldn't have entertained the option of doing something different before, but they are now in a position where they have to consider options from an economic perspective," he says. But he adds that Foulger will discuss with the council how long the latter intends to support the initiative. A controversial legal order that allows Foulger lorries to use Norwich bus lanes is due to end soon, and a decision needs to be made about whether or not to extend it.
"We really have to get this going now," he says. "We need to look at the support and encouragement they can give and what their long-term goals are, particularly with deadlines We are heading towards a key decision point and undeniably the meeting next week is quite significant in that process" Norfolk County Council was unable to respond.