Freightliner welcomes government rail plans

The White Paper makes a provision for funding of £200m in the years up to 2014 to start investing in a strategic freight network, in addition to five Transport Innovation Fund schemes already under consideration. It also supports the industry’s forecast of 30% growth in UK rail freight by 2014.

Lindsay Durham, head of rail strategy at Freightliner, said “It’s great news that the government has announced £200m funding to start developing a strategic freight network and in doing so has recognised the importance of rail freight to the UK economy. The industry must now focus to spend this money wisely, ensuring that we get the best value for money.

“With growth of container movements through ports already exceeding 10% this year, we need a robust network of W10-gauge cleared routes linking the key ports to distribution hubs, enabling continued growth by rail in this established market.”