Barnard has new hopes for Crofty
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by Rob Willock • The future of Redruth tipper operalor Robert Barnard appeared brighter last week as his main contract, the troubled South Crafty tin mine, proposed a 12m rescue package.
Barnard relies on the tin mine for 60% of his 1:400,000 turnover and fears he will have to lay off three of his drivers if the tin mine goes to the wall.
But Barnard says lie has never put all his eggs in the one basket and is busy securing other long-haul contracts—the latest following the closure of local rival, St Austell-based NJ Grose. He has just been granted permission to add another vehicle to his 0-licence, which now authorises eight vehicles and four trailers.
"The mine's future is still up in the air," says Barnard. "but things are looking better."
Bernard Ballard, South Crofty's project manager, has applied to the DTI for a £4.5m Regional Selective Assistance Grant. "We're struggling because of the current low tin price and the strong exchange rate," he says. "But this package includes a fixed-price contract and a range of infrastructure improvements to bring down the break-even."
However, 13allard's long-term hopes rely on the price of tin recovering.
L NJ Grose ceased trading on 12 January because of the illhealth of managing director Michael Grose.
The fleet of 20 tractors and 30 trailers is being sold off and the company's various contracts have been picked up by other local hauliers.