Network Rail’s five-year plan welcomed by FTA
Thursday 29 September 2011
The Freight Transport Association has warmly welcomed Network Rail’s support for rail freight in its plans. Developing Rail Freight in Control Period 5 sets out proposed freight schemes from 2014–2019.
As the leading multi-modal transport trade body, FTA is a keen supporter of seeing more freight moved by rail to make the supply chain safer, more environmentally-friendly and more reliable by reducing our dependence on our overstretched road network.
Chris MacRae, FTA’s Rail Freight Policy Manager, said:
“Network Rail clearly values the contribution that rail freight makes to our economy and its part in getting more lorries off the roads. We support the four proposed freight schemes that it has outlined - its obvious commitment to a national structure for freight is to be welcomed.”
Proposed freight schemes for 2014-2019 are:
- Southampton to West Coast Main Line Capacity
- Great Western Main Line Gauge Enhancement
- Felixstowe to Nuneaton Phase 2
- West Coast Main Line, North of Preston Capacity
MacRae continued:
“These routes form key arterial corridors for Britain’s supply chain and connection with the global economy. Investment in ‘gauge enhancement’ to allow the more commonplace, taller shipping containers to be transported, or investment in capacity improvements to improve increased throughput of freight trains, will help improve efficiency and reliability in the supply chain.”
Earlier this year, FTA welcomed Network Rail’s appointment of a Freight Director as further reassurance that rail freight’s interests will be protected.
Notes for editors
FTA’s FastTrack is a free service that assesses whether rail freight could be an option for companies in the UK. The service is ideal for shippers, haulage companies and anyone who relies on road haulage at present, but wishes to see if rail would complement their operation. See http://www.fta.co.uk/policy_and_compliance/rail/fast_track_service.html for more.
FTA Press Office
01892 552255
press.office@fta.co.uk
