Rail Freight Group (RFG) Launches 'Delivered by Rail Freight' Manifesto
Rail Freight Group (RFG) has unveiled its 'Delivered by Rail Freight' manifesto, a new cross-industry campaign emphasising rail's critical role in transporting essential goods throughout Great Britain.
The manifesto underscores the mutual commitment of the government and all the key rail freight players in the drive to shift more freight from congested roads to the rail network, enhancing economic, environmental, and regional outcomes in line with government objectives.
Private sector rail freight is instrumental in constructing homes and infrastructure, supporting carbon reduction and net-zero targets, and fostering economic and employment growth across UK regions.
Supporting the growth of rail freight
Rail freight’s growth plans are wide-ranging, including assisting new businesses in utilising rail for their goods, investing in state-of-the-art facilities, locomotives, and wagons, and revolutionising operations with data-driven technology. To realise these ambitions, RFG urges the incoming government to support rail freight through several targeted interventions. Strategic government investment in rail infrastructure, such as funding 60 miles of missing electrification, could electrify over 2 million freight train miles annually. This would significantly cut carbon emissions and enhance air quality in local communities.
Maggie Simpson OBE, Director General of RFG, said: "Rail freight benefits everyone, whether it's turning on the lights, shopping, or enjoying a glass of wine. Expanding rail freight across the nation will facilitate the transition of essential goods to rail, bolstering both the economy and the environment.
“The rail freight sector is committed to growth and is investing in facilities, equipment, technology, people and skills. We are calling on the incoming government to match this ambition through interventions that can help rail freight to thrive.”
The manifesto and accompanying campaign will showcase the diverse contributions of rail freight across Britain, from construction materials to cars, waste to wine, and bananas to biomass. The initiative seeks to promote a supportive policy and funding framework conducive to rail freight growth.