Government’s northern plans will help logistics drive growth, says Logistics UK

This will help the logistics industry to drive the economy forward by creating the opportunity for increased rail freight capacity across the region, according to Logistics UK.

Talking after the government’s launch of its Northern Powerhouse Rail plans (14 January 2026), Logistics UK’s Chief Executive Ben Fletcher was optimistic about the prospects for the new infrastructure project and the wider focus on infrastructure, but highlighted that logistics must be at the heart of the scheme’s next stage of development if its full potential is to be realised:

“Logistics delivers economic growth across the UK – nothing moves without the work of our industry and members,” he said “and every pound of investment in new infrastructure is vital if we are to improve competitiveness and enhance efficiency.

“Today’s announcement establishes a clear and deliverable plan for greater rail capacity, which is much needed, and we must now work to ensure that the needs of the logistics sector are front and centre when making plans to maximise the impact of this investment.

“The proposed Liverpool-Manchester railway will create additional capacity, which must benefit freight as well as passenger traffic – faster, cleaner, and cheaper movement of goods helps reduce prices and drives growth”.

“Rail has a key role to play in the decarbonisation of logistics, while ensuring that heavy or bulky loads can still be delivered in a timely fashion. As this new scheme is developed, it is critical that northern leaders, our sector and government work closely together for the benefit of all parties, which will ensure that logistics business can deliver for the north, and further afield.

“We stand ready to engage and help, to ensure that today’s announcement builds confidence and delivers the growth we all want.”