A railway fit for Britain’s future…  Logistics UK emphasises GBR accountability

The response expressed concern over the proposal to downgrade the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to an appeals body, arguing that the regulator should play a proactive role in setting access principles and monitoring GBR’s adherence to them, ensuring fairness from the outset rather than acting merely as a reactive dispute resolver.  

We consider excessive Secretary of State influence in GBR licensing and strategy poses significant risks. The sector, along with private infrastructure providers, needs assurance that network access will be based on objective criteria and not subject to fluctuating political priorities.  

A balanced approach underpinned by independent regulation is deemed crucial for preserving the sector's commercial viability. While the statutory duty imposed on GBR to ensure that rail freight continues to deliver broad benefits is welcomed, the specifics of how this duty will be enforced remain unclear.  

To sustain the economic and environmental advantages of rail freight, it is essential to have guaranteed pathways and proper protection for strategic freight corridors. This stability, along with long-term planning conditions, is vital for supporting the substantial investments and contributions the sector makes to economic growth. 

Political interference and an excessive focus on passenger services could otherwise undermine these benefits.  

To address these concerns, Logistics UK has proposed a specific legislative safeguard that GBR should be mandated to produce an annual report for both parliamentary and regulator scrutiny, detailing its measures to ensure fair access to the rail network and promote rail freight growth. 

Members can view the response here.