Alignment of Engineering
Having visited and reviewed other IWMF’sin the UK, it became clear that retro-fitting to make use of heat, CO2 and electricity was not possible. However, as the site is currently under construction, we have been able to collaborate with the Indaver engineering teamto design heat and CO2 provision from the inception of the scheme.
Security of Supply —
Heat and CO2
From an agronomy perspective, the provision of heat and CO2 for 365 days / 24 hours is imperative to ensure that optimum growing conditions are met.
Ease of logistics
The site is well served by A roads as well as being strategically situated close to supermarket distribution centres.
Water Security
The greenhouses, with their integrated network of reservoirs will be water independent, with rainwater captured to support growing operations.
Provision of green employment
With over 400,000 people living within 12 miles, there is scope to attract the 500 staff required to operate the site. Colchester and Chelmsford have notably higher levels of unemployment for the 25-49 year age bracket.
Life span of the industrial partner
The long-term security of heat and CO2 supply is critical for developing a partnership between horticulture and industry. The IWMF provides this assurance unlike the steel, chemical and refining industries.
Alternatives sites and alternatives to co-location
Establishing greenhouses further away from the IWMF adds complexity and inefficiencies, including heat loss.
Largest expanse of flat land
The restoration of the Bradwell Quarry, following mineral extraction, provides a flat expanse of land with landscaped boundaries and water catchment.
Favourable growing conditions
Braintree receives 1,611 hours of sunshine annually. By comparison the Dutch horticultural areas of the ‘Westland’, north of Rotterdam, receives 1,624 hours annually.
