Institute of Transport Studies, University of Leeds
Abstract
As part of a study into the economic impact of the Humber Bridge on commercial transport, 52 regular bridge-using firms were surveyed. This paper sets out the results and includes a copy of the questionnaire used. The survey sought to understand conscious decision-making and analyse the extent to which firms have adapted to take advantage of distance-based time and cost savings. Significant variation was discovered, depending on a range of operating characteristics such as, geographical market area and size, economic sector, location relative to the Humber Bridge, degree of diversification, nature and length of trips, drivers' hours and payment system, and delivery/loading time constraints. Notwithstanding some data problems, particularly regarding cost adjustments, most firms regard the value of time savings to be a notable benefit. On this sample's evidence, the Hurnber Bridge has a positive, though still moderate, impact on transestuarine economic integration in Humberside
