Tunbridge Wells, UK: Trade associations have welcomed the government’s freight plan as a sign of government support for the sector.
“Publication of the Future of Freight plan is a positive step forward for industry; it reaffirms government’s vital support of one of the largest sectors of the UK economy,” Michelle Gardner, head of public policy, Logistics UK said.
“The inclusion of £7m investment to boost the uptake of innovative new technologies and the development of a National Freight Network is particularly welcome. The government is also right to focus on planning rules to reduce barriers to building new logistics developments and driver parking and facilities – we look forward to engaging with the call for evidence,” she said.
Clare Bottle,chief executive, UK Warehousing Association, said; “This plan focuses on meeting some of the key challenges faced by the UK’s warehousing sector, as well as the wider logistics industry. It’s important that industry plays its part but equally that relevant areas of government collaborate to ensure its success”.
The UK Warehousing Association said the plan identifies the main challenges, objectives and actions that need to be taken in five priority areas:
- The National Freight Network – Identify a National Freight Network (NFN) across road, rail, maritime, aviation, inland waterway and warehouse infrastructure. The long-term aim will be to remove the barriers which prevent the seamless flow of freight.
- Transition to net zero – Support the sector in its transition to net zero. Launch a Freight Energy Forum with industry, focused on collaborating to assess future energy and fuel needs, and paths to providing the requisite infrastructure.
- Planning – Further embed freight in planning, transport and design policy and guidance, and ensure freight is represented in planning reform. Publish a call for evidence with industry to support this work.
- People and skills – Expand awareness of the sector and freight careers amongst the public, particularly through the industry-led and government-backed Generation Logistics communication campaign. Maximise the impact of cross-government employment and skills programmes for the freight sector.
- Data and technology – Maximise opportunities for uptake of innovative technology and digitalisation, including through delivery of a dedicated cross-modal £7 million freight innovation fund.
