This announcement comes alongside the publication of a summary of responses to a national Call for Evidence, aimed at understanding and fostering rail freight growth.
The responses gathered from a wide range of stakeholders show support for a long-term growth target. This target is expected to catalyse the decarbonisation of the UK's logistics chains by bringing together both private and public entities, thereby unlocking untapped demand in the sector.
Rufus Boyd, Great British Railways Transition Team (GBRTT)’s interim Lead Director, expressed enthusiasm about the government's commitment, emphasising that the target aligns with the sector's growth and environmental responsibility aspirations. He highlighted the potential of rail freight as a sustainable and efficient transportation option, reducing road congestion and promoting green logistics.
The GBRTT used the feedback to develop an evidence-based framework, proposing realistic growth targets to the Secretary of State. This process marked the first step in a collaborative effort involving the Department for Transport, Network Rail, and other industry participants to shape future rail freight policies.
The report revealed a strong interest among various organizations, including current and potential rail freight users, in shifting more goods to rail transport. This interest is driven by rail's environmental benefits and the potential for reducing emissions in organizational operations.
However, respondents also identified several barriers to using rail freight, such as network capacity, cost, and terminal connectivity. While setting a growth target is a significant step, the report underscores the need for additional actions and accountability mechanisms to integrate freight considerations into railway decision-making.
In response to these needs, GBRTT has established a Strategic Freight Unit (SFU) to consolidate expertise and integrate freight considerations into strategic decisions for the railway network. This unit is seen as crucial for the successful implementation of the proposed rail reform and for achieving the ambitious growth targets set for the sector.
