Richard Smith, Rowlinson Timber director, told TTJ that the decision to leave Royal Docks after 13 years stemmed from increasing port rates levied by Associated British Ports and pressure on space at Grimsby, coupled with a planned new wind energy development for DONG Energy.
However, Mr Smith said Rowlinson Timber’s new premises at Gunness would yield more storage space and was more closely situated to major roads, such as the M62, for onward distribution of products. The move, he added, gave Rowlinson more confidence it could service its customer needs.
Rowlinson Timber has signed a five-year agreement with Groveport Logistics Ltd, with an option to renew for a further five years.
It will be able to hold close to 50,000m3 at Groveport, an increase from its current Royal Dock site, while 12 berths will be available, compared to only one or two berths at Royal Docks. Rowlinson is also able to bring in more regular shipments on smaller vessels.
The company is already installing a £300,000 high-pressure treatment facility on the new site.
"Grimsby is shrinking for sawn timber and one of the major issues going forward is ensuring we have adequate facilities to put stock on the ground and rotate it," added Mr Smith. "In the past we have had issues where there has not been enough room."
Mr Smith said he was shocked to read in the Grimsby Telegraph earlier this year that DONG Energy’s plans included the area covering one of Rowlinson’s owned sheds.
"We can’t really compete with it [renewable energy]. But I think it’s a short-sighted view because timber is always going to be an important part of our construction sector and the UK economy.
ABP port director Humber John Fitzgerald said the company was always looking to facilitate the widest range of trading interests servicing the UK market.
"Supporting the timber trade into the UK forms a key component of our Humber Ports’ business development strategy," he said.
"We will continue to work with our timber customers to service their requirements and we are confident the Humber will maintain its position as a key entry point in the timber supply chain."
