Logistics UK calls for support for rail freight amidst UK rail network reform

According to Logistics UK, the UK government must ensure the needs of the logistics industry are not side-lined in its reform of the rail network. The business group is urging the government to safeguard opportunities for rail freight as it seeks to make fundamental changes to rail passenger contracting and operations.

Policy Manager of Multimodal at Logistics UK, Zoe McLernon, said: “Rail freight has played a vital role in supporting the UK economy and society through the COVID-19 pandemic; now, as business focuses on economic recovery and decarbonised transport operations, it is vital that we create the right environment for rail freight to thrive.” 

“At Logistics UK, we are urging the UK government to ensure the needs of this critical sector are not side-lined in any political discussion on rail – which tend to prioritise passenger transport – and, instead, recognise that freight is an equally important part of the rail network’s contribution to economic growth. We are asking that rail freight operators are granted fair, equal access to the network, and that freight paths are preserved; government must provide the right framework for its use to grow,” she added.