Member News

Member News – 04 February 2026

February 4, 2026

4 min read

04 February 2026

Your weekly member email from Logistics UK sharing the latest updates addressing industry-relevant developments, legislation and compliance updates and campaigns to help you stay informed.

In this issue:

Logistics UK submits response to Select Committee’s call for evidence on Supercharging the EV Transition.
NESO’s transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan (tRESP) recognises the energy needs of a decarbonising logistics sector.
Humber Bridge launches new toll app and free flow payments.
February 2026 half term holidays – travelling via the Short Straits.
Reminder – Member Advice Centre closure.

NESO’s transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan (tRESP) recognises the energy needs of a decarbonising logistics sector

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) published the transitional Regional Energy Strategic Plan (tRESP) on 30 January to inform investment in electricity distribution networks for the 2028–33 price control period. NESO describes the tRESP as a first step towards improving and coordinating energy infrastructure planning at a local level, ahead of the development of a full Regional Energy Strategic Plan from late 2026.

Forecast energy needs for transport form an important part of the tRESP’s regional energy mapping. Following engagement with Logistics UK, the tRESP identifies that logistics-related energy demand is typically concentrated around ports, freeports, major freight corridors, business parks, industrial estates and logistics hubs.

In Central England, the East Midlands and West Midlands, demand is shown by NESO to be concentrated along motorway corridors and in large warehousing and freight clusters. In coastal and port-based regions including the East of England, South East, North East and Yorkshire, higher energy demand is mapped around ports, freeports and maritime-linked logistics activity, with corridors such as the A14, M1, M6 and M180 highlighted as key freight routes. In areas where logistics vehicles support rurally located industries, the tRESP also identifies more dispersed demand and a need for remote charging infrastructure.

Humber Bridge launches new toll app and free‑flow payments

The Humber Bridge has switched to a free‑flow tolling system, with payments now made via a new website and mobile app, by phone, or in advance at PayPoint outlets. Crucially, drivers must pay by midnight the day after crossing or face an Unpaid Toll Notification.

While the system is live, there have been some technical issues with users attempting to pay through the new mobile app. To support users, the Humber Bridge Board has extended customer service hours and introduced an additional helpline (02046 468929) alongside the main line.

These changes also correspond with the first increase in the Humber Bridge toll charges since 2012. The new charges are set out below:

Vehicle type	Toll (without an account)	Toll (with an account)
Motorbikes and Trikes	Free	Free
2 axle vehicles under 3.5 tonnes: cars, small vans and caravans	£2.00	£1.50
2 axle vehicles between 3.5 -7 tonnes, 9-16 passenger mini bus, bus/coaches, agricultural vehicles	£5.00	£4.00
3 axles or more, over 7.5 tonnes	£15.00	£12.00

February 2026 half term holidays – travelling via the Short Straits

Stakeholders in Kent met to discuss the increased risk of disruption due to the February half term holidays. Data was shared about the expected levels of travel. The Traffic Management Operations Group (TMOG) reviewed this data and applied it to existing control measures in Kent to manage disruption (ie, Op TAP and Dover Traffic Management) and it was concluded that these would be sufficient. Therefore, Operation Brock has been deemed as not being required.

Members are reminded that during this period, they should allow extra time to make it to the Short Straits, ensuring that all their paperwork is ready before making journeys. It is recommended that drivers have supplies with them, such as food and water to mitigate any delays when crossing.