Responding to the announcement from the Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens that rail is her “number one priority for Wales” for the Spending Review, Logistics UK Senior Policy Advisor – Rail, Ellis Shelton welcomed her commitment to the sector but is adamant that the needs of rail freight must be considered alongside those of passenger services:

“While discussions about passenger rail investment in Wales are important, the government must not overlook the vital role of rail freight in supporting Wales’ economy and sustainable transport goals. Rail freight is essential for connecting Welsh ports, industrial centres and businesses to markets across the UK and beyond. As we address historical railway underinvestment in Wales, it’s critical that rail infrastructure is improved and rail freight operators given appropriate access to the upgraded network.

“Efficient rail freight corridors are key to reducing road congestion, lowering carbon emissions and supporting Welsh industries. Any comprehensive rail investment strategy for Wales should include targeted improvements to freight capacity, especially along key routes like the South Wales Main Line and North Wales Coast Line. It is important to remember that the economic benefits of enhanced rail freight capabilities would extend far beyond the railway sector, supporting jobs and growth across Welsh manufacturing, energy and logistics industries and Logistics UK will be pressing this point in discussions with government in the coming days.”

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk

Manufacturing & Engineering Magazine | The Home of Manufacturing Industry News