Logistics UK calls for measures to grow rail freight in response to consultation on rail reform

Our 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. 

We also called for GBR to be mandated to produce an annual report, for Parliamentary scrutiny and the scrutiny of the regulator, setting out its measures to protect fair access to the rail network and deliver rail freight growth.

"To ensure that the potential of the UK's rail network is maximised to drive trade growth, it is vital that the concerns of our members are heard and considered when the next stage of the network is developed," says Ellis Shelton, Senior Policy Advisor at Logistics UK. 

“Rail freight plays a critical role in decarbonising UK logistics, reducing heavy-goods road miles by millions each year. GBR must not operate without clear, enforceable checks and balances – both to safeguard fair access and to drive growth right across the network. Mandated reporting and a strong regulator are not red tape; they are essential tools to guarantee we meet net-zero targets and support resilient supply chains. 

"Our consultation response presses for a streamlined but efficient system which will enable our  members to deliver for their customers and the economy at large – we look forward to working with government to take the plans forwards for the benefit of the rail industry and our members." 

See Logistics UK's full response here.